Summary:
Hamza Majeed, owner of the newly inducted Sialkot PSL franchise, has declared his team’s intent to win the upcoming PSL 11. Emphasizing a strict merit-based selection process, the team will prioritize top players from Pakistan and Australia. Majeed acquired the franchise for Rs1.85 billion, highlighting the league’s expanding financial landscape and positive international image.
Sialkot owner eyes PSL crown with high ambitions, pledging a merit-first approach for his newly acquired franchise. Hamza Majeed, owner of OZ Group, recently outlined his vision for the Sialkot team during a media conference, emphasizing a formidable debut in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11.
Majeed, who purchased the Sialkot franchise for a substantial Rs1.85 billion at a recent glitzy PSL teams auction in Islamabad, stated his primary goal is to clinch the championship. “We have joined the PSL to win it, and we are making a comprehensive plan to achieve this target,” he affirmed.
Sialkot Owner Emphasizes Merit in Selection
The Sialkot owner’s strategy for team composition prioritizes merit. Majeed declared, “There will be no ‘Parchi’ system in our team; decisions will be taken on merit.” The team will first select the best current players from Pakistan, followed by top Australian talent. This approach extends to coaching staff, with a preference for leading Pakistani coaches, and Australian experts as a secondary option.
The PSL has expanded to include eight teams, with Sialkot and Hyderabad as new additions. The Hyderabad franchise was secured by SKF, a US-based entity, for Rs1.75 billion. Majeed views the auction as positive for Pakistan’s international image, downplaying immediate profit concerns despite the high acquisition cost. SindhNews.com will provide live updates.
The total income from the eight franchisees, estimated at Rs6.5 billion, will significantly boost the PCB’s accounts. Reports indicate the six franchises in 2023 collectively earned Rs5 billion. Under the new financial structure, 95 percent of the central income pool will be equally distributed among all eight franchises, with the remaining 5 percent going to the PCB.
Majeed also expressed concern over the condition of Sialkot’s Jinnah Stadium, noting its decline despite a history of hosting international matches. He stated that reviving Jinnah Stadium would be a priority for both PCB and his franchise, with Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad, serving as a secondary home ground.
His inspiration for choosing Sialkot comes from its rich heritage as the birthplace of Allama Iqbal, the “Poet of the East.” Additionally, the city has produced world-class cricketers like Zaheer Abbas, whom Majeed hopes to involve in a suitable role. The franchise is also considering “Sialkot Shaheens” as its team name, inspired by Iqbal’s poetry.
The ambitious plans of the Sialkot franchise, steered by Hamza Majeed, signal a strong intent to impact the PSL significantly. Their focus on merit, strategic player acquisition, and connection to Sialkot’s cricketing legacy could position them as formidable contenders in the forthcoming PSL 11, scheduled to start in late March.