Warner laments lack of intent after defeat

Express Tribune

27-04-2025

Karachi Kings skipper David Warner is an aggressive player who wants his team to attack at all times. PHOTO: PCB
Karachi Kings captain David Warner shared his thoughts after a narrow five-run loss to Quetta Gladiators in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 clash at Gaddafi Stadium on Friday.
Speaking during the post-match press conference, Warner expressed disappointment but chose to focus on the positives.
"Look, I think we have to take the positives out of this. I couldn't be more proud of our bowlers—they gave it their all. But truth be told, we just weren't good enough tonight," Warner admitted.
"I don't mind losing a game where we've fought till the end, but handing it over without a fight is something I can't accept," he added.
The former Australian legend was particularly critical of the team's batting approach.
"We lacked intent with the bat. It wasn't about their bowling, we were just too complacent. The pitch was fantastic—141 doesn't reflect the surface at all. A score of 180 would've been par. Maybe the dew played a part too," he said.
He concluded with a call for self-reflection, adding, "Right now, it's about assessing where we stand. When we've won, it's because we've been positive and fearless. Tonight, we missed that mark."
Quetta Gladiators cruise past Karachi Kings in HBL PSL 10
Quetta Gladiators secured their second victory in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 with a thrilling five-run win over Karachi Kings at the Gaddafi Stadium on Friday.
Chasing a modest target of 143, the Kings fell short, finishing at 137-8 despite a promising start. The innings began on a shaky note as Karachi captain David Warner was dismissed for just four runs by Mohammad Amir in the opening over.
Tim Seifert and James Vince launched a counterattack, taking an aggressive approach to put the Gladiators under pressure. The duo built a 50-run stand for the second wicket, consistently finding boundaries and appearing in control.
However, the momentum shifted when Quetta skipper Saud Shakeel broke the partnership by dismissing Vince for 30 off 29 balls, with the Kings at 77-2 in the ninth over.
Seifert continued his assault but was removed by Mohammad Wasim Jr. for a blistering 47 off 26 deliveries, reducing Karachi to 93-3 in the 12th over.
Later, Karachi's middle order faltered under pressure.
Earlier, batting first, Quetta Gladiators endured a shaky start. Captain Saud Shakeel fell early to Hasan Ali, while Mohammad Nabi removed Mark Chapman to leave Quetta at 44-4 by the end of the powerplay.
Kusal Mendis offered brief resistance with a quickfire 36 off 22 balls, including five boundaries, but his stay was cut short by Abbas Afridi in the ninth over.
Nawaz scored 35 off 34 before being dismissed by Fawad Ali, who claimed his maiden PSL wicket. Faheem provided a late boost with a vital 43 off 26 balls before falling to Abbas Afridi.
For Karachi, Hasan Ali led the bowling attack with three wickets. Abbas Afridi and Mir Hamza took two apiece, while Mohammad Nabi and Fawad Ali chipped in with one wicket each.