Quetta Gladiators: Squad Analysis, Preview and Predictions for PSL X

As the Pakistan Super League (PSL) enters its milestone 10th edition, Quetta Gladiators arrive at a familiar crossroads — needing to break free from the struggles of recent seasons during PSL X. But this time, they’re armed with a blueprint built on fearless batting up top and youthful exuberance down the order, while being led by a new captain, Saud Shakeel.

Here’s what makes this version of Quetta a fascinating wildcard ahead of PSL X.

Powerplay Muscle Like Never Before

Quetta has traditionally been a team that has gotten off to slow starts in the early overs — but PSL X could witness a radical shift in that approach. With Finn Allen joining their ranks, the Gladiators suddenly have one of the fastest-scoring batters in T20 cricket. The Kiwi only trails Australia’s Travis Head in terms of strike rate since 2024.

Best Powerplay Strike Rate since 2024 (min. 400 balls)

Add a surging Hasan Nawaz in home conditions and Rilee Rossouw to the mix, and Quetta should have no trouble getting off to flying starts in PSL X.

Rossouw will once again be crucial to the Gladiators’ chances of making a successful run in the tournament. The South African has been a staple in PSL matches since the league’s inception, but his move from Multan to Quetta has dented his run-scoring prowess. The Gladiators will be hoping that he can return to his best in time to help the team’s cause.

Rilee Rossouw – Performance for PSL Teams

Youthful Intrigue in the Middle Order

One of the most exciting subplots will be how Quetta manages their local batting resources. Khawaja Nafay, who has exclusively opened since PSL 9 in T20 cricket, will likely slot in alongside the power hitters to accommodate others, while Haseebullah Khan’s inclusion provides tactical flexibility. His best returns have come at No. 3 in T20s — averaging 40.7 at a strike rate of 140.2 — and Quetta may need to resist the temptation to push him lower, where his performances drop significantly.

Haseebullah Khan – Batting Record in T20s (By Batting Position)

Faheem Ashraf could prove to be Quetta Gladiators’ trump card in PSL X. After selecting the all-rounder in the Platinum Category, Quetta caught plenty of flak from critics, but Faheem remains as impactful as ever in the PSL. In the past six editions, Faheem Ashraf has finished as one of the 15 most impactful players four times, meaning his contributions with bat and ball remain as steady as they can be.

Bowling — Plenty to Prove

Losing Mohammad Hasnain could have derailed Quetta’s bowling plans if not for Mohammad Wasim Jr. The pacer boasts one of the best economy rates in the death overs in the PSL since 2022 and will be tasked with leading his side’s pace attack.

Kyle Jamieson and Sean Abbott will provide plenty of pace cover, while Faheem’s useful spells in the middle overs could be enough for the team.

Best Economy in Death Overs in PSL Since 2022 (Min. 20 Overs Bowled)

The Big Picture

For a franchise that has struggled to keep pace with the rest of the teams in the PSL in recent years, Quetta Gladiators look refreshingly bold heading into PSL X.

With Finn Allen and Hasan Nawaz set to dictate terms in the Powerplay, and a clutch of talented youngsters offering depth and unpredictability, this could be the season where Quetta finally sheds their conservative tag.

The question around their bowling remains, but the Gladiators appear poised to launch a serious bid for their second PSL title. Either way, expect Quetta to entertain like never before. Playing safe is no longer an option.

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