Fakhar Zaman Absent, Mohammad Amir Shines
Mohammad Amir's performance has sparked discussions about the Pakistan Super League and the future of Pakistani cricket, with many players and mentors weighing in on the team's strategy and player selection, including the potential return to form of key players like Babar Azam.
Mohammad Amir's impressive display against Peshawar Zalmi's captain Babar Azam in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) has garnered praise from Pakistan cricketer Umar Akmal, who highlighted Amir's consistent challenge to Babar, exposing his weaknesses.
Amir's celebration after dismissing Babar Azam was notable, as he signaled to the coaching staff that "the tiger is still alive" with a charged run towards the dugout where team mentor Viv Richards was present. Richards, a West Indies legend, calmly told Amir to keep calm and continue his good work. Amir finished with 1/18, while teammate Faheem Ashraf took 5/33, helping the Gladiators win by 64 runs.
Babar Azam struggled against Amir, scoring only a single off four balls before being dismissed. Despite this, Richards expressed confidence in Babar's return to form, saying he is a good player who will soon regain his form. Umar Akmal also criticized Peshawar Zalmi's underwhelming campaign, blaming it on the inconsistency of their opening batters, specifically Babar Azam and Saim Ayub.
The Pakistan Cricket Board's team selection strategy has been called into question by Akmal, who urged the PCB chairman to bring in competent professionals. Meanwhile, Amir has expressed interest in playing in the Indian Premier League, but a ban on Pakistani cricketers participating in the league remains in place, leaving his future plans uncertain.