Ramiz Raja hails Sikandar Raza's heroics
Sikandar Raza flew from England at the 11th hour and smashed an unbeaten 22 off just seven deliveries to help Lahore secure third HBL PSL title. Photo: PCB
Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja on Monday lavished praise on Sikandar Raza for his match-winning performance and unwavering commitment that played a crucial role in Lahore Qalandars' triumph in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 final.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ramiz commended Raza's extraordinary dedication, revealing that the Zimbabwean all-rounder changed multiple flights just to make it to the match in time.
"The way Sikandar showed commitment is truly admirable. He not only managed to reach Pakistan against the odds but also played and led his team to victory," Ramiz said.
The 62-year-old added that while the win was a team effort, Raza's performance stood out.
"Sikandar Raza played a phenomenal innings in the final. Every player contributed, but he added the winning spark. Perera also played a fantastic knock and played his part in the win," he added.
Ramiz revealed behind-the-scenes details, noting that Raza arrived in Lahore just hours before the final.
"Lahore Qalandars had prepared two squad listsone with Sikandar Raza and another with Shakib Al Hasan, in case Raza couldn't make it in time." he revealed.
"He landed in Lahore around 6 PM on the day of the final. When he arrived at the ground, he bowled just three or four deliveries in the warm-up and then went straight onto the field," Ramiz shared.
The former PCB chief described Raza's commitment as a testament to his love for cricket and loyalty to the Lahore Qalandars.
"This is a remarkable example of dedication. It shows Sikandar's love for the game and the franchise. Lahore Qalandars, in return, take great care of their players, and we have all seen that," he said.
PM congratulates Qalandars
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday congratulated Lahore Qalandars on lifting their third HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) title, and praised all participating teams for demonstrating what he called "excellent sportsmanship" throughout a disrupted but thrilling tenth edition of the tournament.
"Lahore Qalandars successfully achieved the target after a thrilling match," Sharif said in a statement issued from his office. "All the teams involved in PSL 10 showed excellent sportsmanship."
The prime minister, currently on a four-nation diplomatic visit with his first stop in Türkiye, also extended congratulations to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the entire administration for organising the high-profile event under challenging circumstances.
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