CLT20: We have the momentum to win, says Hafeez

Lions’ captain confident ahead of CLT20 clash against Kolkata

KARACHI: Lahore Lions captain Muhammad Hafeez expressed confidence in his players as they open their Champions League T20 (CLT20) league round campaign against Indian Premier League champions Kolkata Knight Riders on Sunday.

Lions delivered contrasting performances in the qualifiers, beating Mumbai Indians and then received a thrashing at the hands of the Northern Knights. They went on to win the last qualifier against Southern Express to qualify for the league round.

“As a team, we played good cricket in the qualifiers and the most deserving teams have qualified,” said Hafeez. “We have momentum and confidence going into the league group.

“We now believe in ourselves more than we did when we came here. Everyone is ready and excited to perform.”

Kolkata beat Chennai Super Kings by three wickets in their first match despite their top order struggling to render performance, and Hafeez believes that will be the key to their victory.

“Picking wickets in the initial overs is crucial and our bowlers have been doing that,” said Hafeez. “Aizaz Cheema has led the way on that front and other bowlers like Wahab Riaz, Imran Ali and Asif Raza are also chipping in. We have a good bowling attack overall. We know doing well with the new ball is important.”