Bopara reveals Kings' 'key objective' for HBL PSL 10
Former England all-rounder Ravi Bopara will be coaching Karachi Kings in the HBL Pakistan Super League season 10. Photo: REUTERS
The newly-appointed head coach of Karachi Kings' Ravi Bopara shared insights on the former champions' goals and objectives for the upcoming 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Bopara's association with the Kings dates back to the inaugural edition of the marquee league when he represented them as a player until 2019. The all-rounder eventually returned to the side in 2023 as the batting coach and was soon promoted to the assistant coach role last year.
However, Phil Simmons' appointment as Bangladesh men's cricket team's head coach until the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027 paved the way for Bopara to take up the supreme role in the Kings' coaching setup.
The former England all-rounder termed it an honour to be a part of this exciting journey with the Kings before asserting that their primary goal is to create players for the future of Pakistan cricket, especially the emerging talent.
"I have received tremendous support from the Karachi Kings management over the years. It's been a great journey, from my days as a player for the team to now joining as head coach. It's an honour to be a part of this exciting journey," said Bopara.
"The main goal of the PSL is to create players for the future of Pakistan cricket, especially the young players coming through the ranks. For those not currently in the national team, it offers a chance to get back into the mix.
Ravi Bopara also opined on the Kings' squad for the upcoming edition, stating that it is a blend of youngsters and some experienced overseas players like skipper David Warner and Kane Williamson.
The former all-rounder also emphasised having experienced players in the mix, stating that they can guide the youngsters to success.
"We have a very strong squad, especially when you look at the local players we have. It's a solid core, and alongside them, we have a group of experienced overseas players," he stated.
Hassan Ali appointed Kings' vice captain
Right-arm pacer Hasan Ali has been appointed vice-captain of the Karachi Kings for the upcoming tenth edition of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL).
The announcement was made on the Kings' social media platforms, where they shared a creative banner of Hasan, proudly unveiling him as the new deputy. The caption read: "Hasan Ali proudly takes charge as the new Vice-Captain of #KingsSquad."
This marks their second change in leadership, as David Warner was previously appointed captain of the team in his debut season, replacing opening batter Shan Masood. Hasan also holds the record for the most wickets in a single PSL season, having taken 25 wickets in 13 matches for Peshawar Zalmi during PSL 4.