PSL reviving Pakistan’s interest in music: Shafqat Amanat Ali

Singer wants PSL final to be held in Lahore

SHARJAH: While people from all over Pakistan have been flocking to the UAE to experience what can only be described as our biggest cricket event in recent history, many have been debating if the Pakistan Super League (PSL) really has to be held overseas.

A number of celebrities, in particular, have been claiming that the final match of the series ought to be held on home ground at least, and that it would be safe to do so. Renowned singer Shafqat Amanat Ali – who supports the Lahore Qalandars - said that the support PSL has received is phenomenal, especially since it is happening in Sharjah, a cricket hub. “It feels great and exciting to see foreign cricketers play alongside our local ones,” he told The Express Tribune. “Not to mention, PSL has brought some great new music for people to enjoy too. It’s actually reviving people’s interest in music which is a great sign!”



Nonetheless, Shafqat confessed he would love it if the final of such an epic series was held in his hometown – preferably with the Lahore Qalandars as one of its contenders.

Actor Qasim Khan, who played Gulsher Khan on the famous 90s army drama Alpha Bravo Charlie, echoed Shafqat’s sentiments, saying that people’s reaction to PSL is a positive sign. “The way everyone has been enjoying cricket and looking so passionate about it is a great sign for Pakistan,” Qasim said.

“The last match I watched was the Hockey Champions Trophy many years ago and never visited a stadium after that. But when I saw PSL matches on TV, I really wished to be there and experience it live,” added the actor. I meet cricketers often but never watch their matches. This time, the excitement made me stop in Sharjah on my way home from the UK.”

Qasim wished to see the tournament take place in Pakistan, saying that it is a good place for all kinds of sporting activities. “We have seen many big events take place smoothly. I think it’s just speculation that Pakistan is not safe or not the country for sports. It’s a conspiracy by our enemies, who don’t want Pakistan holding such a big, successful and commercial sporting event,” he said. “Activities like PSL bring joy to the people, which our enemies are trying to take away. They want to usurp the life from Pakistanis. Causalities happen everywhere in the world but people still have sports events, right? I think the organisers should see through their plan to hold the final in Pakistan. We’ll have a great event!”



When asked to reveal his favourite team from the PSL line-up, Qasim said he likes all the players. “But, as a Pashtun, I should be inclined towards the Peshawar Zalmis, I think,” he stated. “I feel like l am more close to Zalmi but whoever wins, we will all celebrate.”

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