KK skipper credits Afridi, Ingram for opening victory

DUBAI — Karachi Kings captain Imad Wasim credited Shahid Afridi and Colin Ingram for his team’s 19-run win over Quetta Gladiators in the third edition of the Pakistan Super League being played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

“Afridi’s catch was a game changer. I wasn’t expecting that,” said the youngest captain of the PSL. “He is a legend and a superstar. We all respect and admire him. On the field, and off it, he is a fighter. So he is a big asset to Karachi Kings,” added the 29-year-old.

“Colin’s (Ingram) 40 too was a turning point,” said the skipper, although he felt his team was 20 runs short.

“Our bowlers bowled really well to restrict them,” added Imad who seems to be enjoying his new role of a captain.

On whether he aspires to lead the Pakistan national team some day, he was very clear in his mind when he said, “I’m not thinking of captaining Pakistan at the moment as Sarfraz is doing a fantastic job. I back him in every way.”

Imad would love it if the entire PSL is moved to Pakistan. “Whenever I’ve played in Pakistan I haven’t seen a better venue and atmosphere than that in the entire world, be it Lahore, Karachi or any city. So I wish and request PCB to conduct the tournament in Pakistan. It’s not that we are not enjoying here in Dubai but Pakistan would be better,” he answered with a chuckle.

Meanwhile, Quetta captain Sarfraz felt losing early wickets and playing too many dot balls was the downfall of his team.

“We lost too many wickets and played too many dot balls — almost five overs of dot balls — in the early stages of the innings, and I think that cost us the match.”