- Joined
- Aug 29, 2023
- Runs
- 44,098
In this exclusive interview, Lahore Qalandars owner and team director Sameen Rana spoke to Saj about the franchise’s philosophy, the evolution of the PSL, and how he manages players through pressure, criticism, and failure.
From achieving over 90% of their auction targets to backing Shaheen Afridi during tough times, Rana offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what makes the Qalandars one of the most successful and respected franchises in world cricket.
Key revelations include:
Loyalty Philosophy: He emphasized the importance of long-term relationships, stating, “Once a Qalandar, always a Qalandar” to highlight the franchise's commitment to loyalty over short-term gains.
Auction Success: He mentioned that meticulous planning allowed them to achieve more than 90% of their goals in the auction, showcasing their strategic approach to building the squad.
Player Confidence: He expressed his role in restoring confidence in players like Shaheen Shah Afridi, especially after facing public criticism.
No Public Criticism: He maintained a steady management style, asserting, “I never, ever criticised my player publicly,” even during challenging seasons.
Mental Health in Cricket: He highlighted the mental health aspect of cricket, urging experts and media to consider the stress players face before targeting individuals.
People Management: He shared a key learning from the first PSL auction, stating that “a doubt will actually hurt you on an auction table,” emphasizing the importance of confidence in player management.
Process Over Results: He conveyed that he focuses on the process rather than the outcomes, saying, “I stopped getting worried about the results.”
Empowerment Culture: He described the family-first environment at Lahore Qalandars, stating, “We don’t have a headmaster‑student relationship,” which reflects his belief in empowering players.
Watch the latest interview with Saj below:
From achieving over 90% of their auction targets to backing Shaheen Afridi during tough times, Rana offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what makes the Qalandars one of the most successful and respected franchises in world cricket.
Key revelations include:
Loyalty Philosophy: He emphasized the importance of long-term relationships, stating, “Once a Qalandar, always a Qalandar” to highlight the franchise's commitment to loyalty over short-term gains.
Auction Success: He mentioned that meticulous planning allowed them to achieve more than 90% of their goals in the auction, showcasing their strategic approach to building the squad.
Player Confidence: He expressed his role in restoring confidence in players like Shaheen Shah Afridi, especially after facing public criticism.
No Public Criticism: He maintained a steady management style, asserting, “I never, ever criticised my player publicly,” even during challenging seasons.
Mental Health in Cricket: He highlighted the mental health aspect of cricket, urging experts and media to consider the stress players face before targeting individuals.
People Management: He shared a key learning from the first PSL auction, stating that “a doubt will actually hurt you on an auction table,” emphasizing the importance of confidence in player management.
Process Over Results: He conveyed that he focuses on the process rather than the outcomes, saying, “I stopped getting worried about the results.”
Empowerment Culture: He described the family-first environment at Lahore Qalandars, stating, “We don’t have a headmaster‑student relationship,” which reflects his belief in empowering players.
Watch the latest interview with Saj below:
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