Lahore Qalandars star all-rounder Sikandar Raza has clarified the reason behind his dramatic return during the Pakistan Super League (PSL X) final, rejecting suggestions that financial incentives influenced his decision.
Sikandar Raza, currently representing the defending champions in the ongoing PSL 11, addressed the issue in response to remarks made by Islamabad United all-rounder Imad Wasim, who had earlier linked his last-minute appearance to the demands and financial nature of franchise cricket.
The controversy dates back to last year, when Raza rejoined the Qalandars just minutes before the toss in the PSL X final at Gaddafi Stadium. At the time, his availability was uncertain as he had taken partial leave to represent Zimbabwe in a one-off Test match against England in Nottingham. The match concluded late Saturday night , making his participation in the final unclear.
Despite this, Sikandar Raza Raza arrived in time and took the field against Quetta Gladiators.
Speaking about the situation at the time, Imad Wasim had commented broadly on the demands of franchise cricket.
“Like Shoaib Akhtar said, money can do things for you,” Imad said. “If you’re getting paid, you’ll go. I travel a lot too. Sometimes one match ends, and the next day you’re playing another. I have traveled 24 hours straight and gone directly into a match. So yes, money can make different things happen.”
In a recent interview with a local sports platform, Raza firmly rejected the suggestion that money influenced his decision.
“Regarding Imad Wasim’s comments about money being my motivation to return and play the PSL final, money was not the motivating factor,” Raza said. “My priorities are respect, honor, and loyalty. In fact, money was deducted from my contract for the matches I missed, so his opinion doesn’t bother me because it isn’t true.”
Raza’s performance in the final proved decisive. The Qalandars, led by Shaheen Afridi, secured their third PSL title with a six-wicket victory over Quetta Gladiators.
Chasing a target of 202, Lahore got off to a strong start. Mohammad Naeem scored 47 off 27 balls, including one four and six sixes, before being dismissed by Faheem Ashraf.
Abdullah Shafique added 41 runs off 28 deliveries, hitting four boundaries and a six, before falling to Usman Tariq with Lahore at 115 for 3 in 12.3 overs.
As the required run rate increased, both Thisara Perera and Bhanuka Rajapaksa struggled to maintain momentum.
Raza then shifted the game by hitting consecutive boundaries off Mohammad Amir. Perera also contributed significantly, scoring a quick half-century off 28 balls.
With 13 runs needed in the final over, Raza remained composed, hitting a four and a six to seal the victory with one ball remaining.
His performance played a key role in securing another championship for Lahore and highlighted his contribution despite the controversy surrounding his late arrival.
Stay posted to ProSports for all the latest PSL 11 news, stats, points table, schedule, stats, and power rankings.
Get the latest sports news, match updates, and player stories wherever you prefer.
Add ProPakistani to Preferred Sources and see more of our stories in Google Search and Top Stories.