Saud Shakeel names 2 rising stars from Quetta Gladiators ready for Pakistan

Saud Shakeel hails two youngsters from Quetta Gladiators as stars ready for future Pakistan call-ups after HBL PSL.

Quetta Gladiators captain Saud Shakeel has backed two rising stars as future prospects for Pakistan’s national cricket team following their impressive performances in the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10.

Speaking ahead of the crucial HBL PSL 10 Qualifier against defending champions Islamabad United at Gaddafi Stadium on May 21, Saud praised the duo of Hassan Nawaz and Khawaja Nafay, noting their talent and impact.

“Hassan Nawaz played all kinds of shots and was instrumental in our victories,” said Saud. “The performances of players like Hassan Nawaz and Khawaja Nafay are very encouraging signs for Pakistan cricket. Both have the potential to represent Pakistan at the international level soon.”

Hassan Nawaz has been a standout performer for the Gladiators this season, ranking as the tournament’s fifth-highest run-scorer with 317 runs from 10 matches at a stellar average of 63.40 and a strike rate of 159.29.

His tally includes two half-centuries and a century, highlighting his consistency and match-winning capabilities.

Reflecting on the team’s campaign, Saud noted, “We have played quite good cricket throughout the PSL. Finishing at the top of the points table shows our strength, but now the focus is on the qualifier to secure our place in the final.”

While pleased with the overall team performance, Saud stressed there is still room to improve. “Khawaja Nafay got a chance and performed well. We have played most matches with Finn Allen; the final eleven and batting positions are yet to be finalized.”

The 29-year-old captain also credited Hassan Nawaz’s significant contribution to the team’s turnaround this season. “We had a slow start but bounced back strongly with the bat once Hassan was included. There was initial uncertainty about his batting order, but his impact speaks for itself,” Saud added.

The Gladiators topped the HBL PSL 10 points table with seven wins, two losses, and one washout, aiming to build on their 2018 championship success.

As Pakistan cricket looks ahead, Saud Shakeel’s endorsement shines a spotlight on Nawaz and Nafay as exciting prospects ready to take the next step in their careers.