Jofra Archar praises PSL3's cricketing standard

Right-arm pacer says he was inspired by the quality of such a competitive league

Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Quetta Gladiators’ foreign pick Jofra Archer has praised the standard of cricket displayed in the third edition of the tournament.

Archer, who played two matches for Quetta in PSL3, says he didn’t know what to expect when he walked into the six-team event, but was very quickly in awe of the competitiveness of the league.

“It was my first year in the PSL and whilst I was only there for a few matches, I really enjoyed the experience,” Archer told PakPassion. “I did not really know what to expect but soon realised that it's a very competitive league with some fantastic overseas players and local Pakistani cricketers taking part. There's no quarter given and the cricket is of a very high standard.”

On playing alongside KP and Watson

Archer, who took five wickets for Quetta in just two outings with the franchise, also opened up about his experience of playing with cricketing greats Kevin Pietersen and Shane Watson.

“It was a great opportunity,” he said. “They certainly weren't shy to share their knowledge and experience and to help their teammates out. It was very encouraging for me to get the chance to play alongside the likes of Pietersen and Watson.”

He the revealed what both cricketers told him in terms of planning for the future. “Shane is a cricketer who has played all over the world so he was talking to me about playing in different countries, what to expect, what he had learnt about playing in different conditions and the skills needed to be able to perform in various parts of the world,” he said. “With Kevin, he was talking more about backing myself in any situation, to always believe in myself and to always have faith in my own ability to succeed.”

On Sir Viv’s role in Quetta

West Indies great Sir Viv Richards has been with Quetta Gladiators as a mentor for all three editions and Archer believes his mere presence is a boost of confidence for youngsters.

“He was very vocal around the dressing room and a very good person to have around especially for the younger players,” revealed Archer. “When Viv talks, everyone listens and you just absorb and take in what he is saying. I mean Viv is the sort of man who everyone wants to talk to and learn from as such opportunities don't come around every day. He's particularly good with the younger players, guiding them, offering his suggestions to them, but at the same time allowing them to do what they think is best for them.”