Talking Points After The First Leg Of PSL 4 Comes To An End

The first leg from the fourth edition of Pakistan Super League (PSL 4) was completed in Dubai yesterday. So, here is a look at a few talking points for each franchise from what we have been able to witness this far.

Gladiators Look Hungry

With two victories in as many games, Quetta Gladiators have started off brilliantly and are leading the table for now. They look hungry and determined to win the trophy. However, history suggests that they have always been consistent in the tournament and it is only in the big games that they choke. So, despite a good start the challenge for the Gladiators really is to guard against complacency so that they are able to sustain the momentum.

Zalmi Show Attitude

Despite losing the first game against Gladiators, Peshawar Zalmi showed attitude to win their next game comprehensively against the Qalandars. They have been competitive throughout the tournament so far and hence, are one of the teams to watch out for.

Sultans Show The Will To Fight

Like the Zalmi, Multan Sultans too despite losing their opening game came back strong in the match against the Champions United to clinch the victory. They have been competitive during the first leg however, they bank heavily on the likes of Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Malik, and Andre Russell. Therefore, Sultans too will require big contributions from them throughout the event.

Is Fawad Rana’s Franchise Under A Spell?

On paper, Lahore Qalandars look invisible. However, in reality, they seem to be struggling again. Over the years they have seen T20 legends like Chris Gayle and Brendon McCullum play for them and fail. They now have the great AB de Villiers in the dugout who too while representing Qalandars looks to be searching for form. To make matters worse they have lost the services of skipper Mohd. Hafeez because of an injury and have little choice but to rely on AB who is already under pressure, to lead the proceeding from here onwards.

Having lost 2 out of 3 games they are at the bottom of the table; something they are pretty used to by now. Given the scenario, there is little choice but to wonder if Fawad Rana’s franchise is under a spell of some sort.

United Not Quite There Yet

United did manage a come from behind victory in the opening game of the tournament against the Qalandars but Sultans and Gladiators did not allow them a similar fate. So, with one victory in two games, it is just fair to say that the defending champions are not quite there yet and need to pull up their socks before it is too late for them to make a comeback.

Kings Still Not Doing Justice To Their Talent

Karachi Kings have not been as bad as Lahore Qalandars. However, they too have a wonderful side that is yet to do justice with its talent. Representing the biggest city of Pakistan, the franchise for sure has disappointed its fans over the years and with a victory and a loss in the tournament so far, they are yet to look convincing and seem ordinary for now.