Zimbabwe’s T20 captain Sikandar Raza has delivered a firm response to comments made by Imad Wasim regarding his dramatic appearance in last season’s Pakistan Super League final.
The debate traces back to the title clash at Gaddafi Stadium, where Raza made a remarkable last-minute arrival to rejoin Lahore Qalandars just before the toss. His availability had been uncertain after fulfilling international duties for Zimbabwe in a one-off Test against England in Nottingham, which concluded only hours earlier.
At the time, Imad Wasim, when asked to sum up Raza in a word, instead reflected on the demanding lifestyle of franchise cricketers. Referencing the financial pull of the global T20 circuit, he suggested that lucrative contracts often drive players to endure intense travel schedules and tight turnarounds between matches.
Raza, however, has now dismissed the implication that money influenced his decision. Speaking in a recent interview, the Sialkot-born all-rounder emphasized that his return for the final was rooted in personal principles rather than financial gain.
He explained that his priorities lie in loyalty, respect, and commitment to his team. In fact, he revealed that missing earlier fixtures had resulted in deductions from his contract, underlining that his choice to feature in the final came at a financial cost rather than benefit.
The final itself proved to be a fitting stage for his resolve. Led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, Lahore Qalandars chased down a formidable target set by Quetta Gladiators to secure their third PSL crown.
An aggressive start from Mohammad Naeem laid the platform, while Abdullah Shafique added momentum in the middle overs. Yet as the required rate climbed, the contest hung in the balance.
Raza once again rose to the occasion in the closing stages, shifting the pressure with decisive strokes, including crucial boundaries off Mohammad Amir. Alongside him, Thisara Perera’s quickfire half-century kept Lahore within touching distance.
With the title on the line and runs needed in the final over, Raza held his nerve, striking a boundary followed by a towering six to seal a memorable victory with a delivery to spare—capping a performance that reinforced his commitment to the franchise beyond any monetary considerations.
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