It’s an honour to compose PSL anthem again: Ali Zafar

KARACHI: If you thought Pakistan’s rock star Ali Zafar was on a roll in 2016, you haven’t seen it all. While 2016 saw him share screen with Alia Bhatt and Shah Rukh Khan in Dear Zindagi, the multi-talented star announced his Pakistani film debut as well. And while we wait for that, he is all set to release Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2017’s official anthem titled Ab Khel Jamay Ga on January 1. Zafar has crooned the anthem for the second consecutive year.



PSL 2016 anthem Ab Khel Ke Dikha was a catchy number, but didn’t live up to the hype. It remains to be seen whether this year’s follow-up would make a mark and stay in our memories longer.

Speaking with The Express Tribune, Zafar said he was honoured to have been chosen to write, compose and perform the anthem again. And he was aware of higher expectations this time around. “After last time's phenomenal response I assume the expectations will be much higher this year. Therefore I have tried to make a song that's fun, and not only celebrates the success of last year’s achievement but also anticipates what's in store for the year to come.”

There has been a lack of patriotic numbers, or more appropriately, catchy patriotic numbers and the latest anthem may start such a trend. When asked about the lack of patriotic music, Zafar said, “We need to re-energise a lot of things, including music.”



Until now, the official PSL Facebook page has shared two teasers of the song. In one, Zafar said he has composed a different tune this time. “Last time, it was just the beginning. This time, it’s a bigger celebration.” He ends by saying, “This time it’s going to be bigger, better and brighter, more fun, more exciting.”

Earlier this year, PSL 2016 saw Zafar kick off the star-studded opening ceremony of the tournament with a grand performance, alongside international star Sean Paul.

PSL 2017 commences in February, and will be played in the UAE among five teams. The final of the tournament might be played in Lahore, according to league chairman Najam Sethi, if the security situation is better. Let’s see if this time around, khel jamay ga ya nahi!