Former South African skipper, AB de Villiers, who is one of the most prolific cricketers in the cricketing world, is ready to play Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches in Pakistan.
De Villiers will represent Lahore Qalandars for the fourth edition of the league.
The news was announced on PSL’s official Twitter account on Monday.
🥁 🥁 🥁 The #DamaDamMast T20 star AB de Villiers is coming to Lahore to play back to back matches at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium.
Jee Aayan Noo @ABdeVilliers17. #KhelDeewanoKa
More details 👉 https://t.co/H0ig7qGRJW— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) January 14, 2019
De Villiers also confirmed the news by saying he was looking forward to performing in front of Lahore’s crowd in March.
“I am delighted to confirm that I will represent Lahore Qalandars in front of our home crowds on 9 and 10 March, during the HBL PSL 2019,” de Villiers announced.
He was optimistic about the return of international cricket to Pakistan and felt that he could play a part in helping the cause.
“I feel I have a role to play in helping international cricket return to Pakistan,” Mr 360 expressed.
The former South African batsman was hopeful that his presence would help Qalandars get the missing piece in their squad.
“I look forward to revisiting the Gaddafi Stadium and aim to play my part in helping Lahore Qalandars achieve something they have been aspiring for since the inception of this tournament in 2016,” he added.
This would be De Villiers’ second visit to Lahore as he has previously been part of the South African squad that visited Pakistan in 2007. He scored an important, unbeaten 45-run innings to draw the Lahore Test.
The right-arm power-hitter then smashed, 103 not out, 35 and 17 in the first, second and fifth ODIs, respectively.
“I am fully aware that cricket is like a second religion in Pakistan. I still remember the support and appreciation we received in 2007. Furthermore, I feel I have a role to play in helping international cricket return to Pakistan. These have been some of the motivating factors for me to return to Lahore,” said de Villiers.
Elated by his announcement, franchise owner Rana Fawad said:
I am certain he will further brighten the Gaddafi Stadium with his amazing talent and skills on 9 and 10 March.
Team’s captain Mohammad Hafeez also welcomed de Villiers’ move and said:
I am confident that AB will take home memories.
Via: PSL
Is there a possibility that we can make ABD a honorary citizen? Then make him captain of our cricket team?