[EXCLUSIVE] "We had our best team in the last 10 years": Mohammad Akram, Director Peshawar Zalmi

[Ball Blazer]

In our latest exclusive interview conducted by Saj Sadiq, Mohammad Akram, former Pakistan pace bowler, ex-national team bowling coach, and current Director of Cricket at Peshawar Zalmi, opens up about Zalmi’s PSL 2025 struggles, team dynamics, and the future of Pakistan cricket. With decades of experience as a player and mentor, Akram delivers unfiltered insights into squad challenges, player development, and the pressures of franchise leadership.

Main topics covered in this interview:

Zalmi’s Strong Squad Struggled: Even with their best team in 10 years, Peshawar Zalmi couldn't reach the playoffs.

Missed Catches and Poor Form: Dropped catches and out-of-form foreign players made a big difference in their performance.

Babar’s Tough Time Mentally: Babar Azam faced mental health issues but is working hard to get back in form.

Ali Raza Shows Great Talent: Young fast bowler Ali Raza impressed many and could be Pakistan’s next big star.

Top Players Left Midway: Losing key players to the IPL and international matches hurt Zalmi’s chances.

Fans Waited 10 Years: Peshawar fans finally saw PSL matches in their city after waiting for a decade.

Don’t miss Akram’s candid reflections on accountability, nurturing talent, and the relentless standards of the PSL, hailed as "the most competitive league" by global stars.

Watch full interview here

 

[Rana]

A mentally healthy Babar is Nicholas Pooran it seems

 

[DeadlyVenom]

PSL 2
Peshawar Zalmi: Mohammad Hafeez, Dawid Malan, Kamran Akmal (wk), Eoin Morgan, Haris Sohail, Darren Sammy (capt), Shahid Afridi, Mohammad Asghar, Wahab Riaz, Chris Jordan, Hasan Ali



PSL 1

• Mohammad Hafeez
• Kamran Akmal †
• Shahid Yousaf
• Brad Hodge
• Jonny Bairstow
• Daren Sammy
• Shahid Afridi (c)
• Wahab Riaz
• Hasan Ali
• Mohammad Asghar
• Shaun Tait

Both these sides are comfortably better than Peshawar in this PSL

 

[BouncerGuy]

Nay. I dont think the current PZ was better than any of the PZ teams in the last few years. Bowling was pretty average and the overseas players they had were not that good tbh.

 

[BunnyRabbit]

PZ have been picking such rubbish sides since 2020 that even when they upgrade a little, it still looks rubbish.

 

[pakistani pride]

LOL this was the worst team in recent years.

 

[Rana]

Mitchell Owen
Alzari Joseph
Saim Ayub
Mohammad Harris

Only a rubbish captain can not make the play offs with these players at your disposal.

 

[cricfan432]

It was a good team, but saim was out of form, owen couldnt adjust to conditions, Abdul samad didnt get enough chances, Maaz sadaqat came too late.

 

[pakistani pride]

It was a good team, but saim was out of form, owen couldnt adjust to conditions, Abdul samad didnt get enough chances, Maaz sadaqat came too late.

Abdul Samad has lots of work to do. Cant hit every delivery to the legside.

 

[mominsaigol]

Mitchell Owen
Alzari Joseph
Saim Ayub
Mohammad Harris

Only a rubbish captain can not make the play offs with these players at your disposal.

Honestly I'm surprised PZ did so poorly this time around

 

[BouncerGuy]

Next year, Zalmi should be looking to appoint Haris as captain and leave Babar azam as a player only. Also, try to look for some other foreign players instead of TKC.

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Peshawar Zalmi renew franchise agreement for another decade

Lahore, 24 November 2025:

The franchise rights for one of the most recognisable and influential teams in the HBL PSL, Peshawar Zalmi, will remain with their current owners for the next decade following the renewal of their franchise agreement on Monday.

The owners of the 2017 champions were among the first to extend their franchise agreement at the market value determined by Ernst & Young - after a comprehensive and transparent valuation process.

The renewal reaffirms stakeholders’ confidence in the HBL PSL’s enduring strength and rising brand value ahead of its expansion to eight teams in the 11th edition next year.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi:

"I am delighted that Peshawar Zalmi will continue under the leadership of Mr. Javed Afridi, whose commitment, professionalism and passion have played a fundamental role in elevating the Zalmi brand into one of the most dynamic and admired sporting entities in Pakistan.

"Javed Afridi’s vision has not only strengthened the Zalmi franchise but has also contributed immensely to the growth of the HBL PSL. His decision to renew reflects a strong belief in the league’s future potential and continued success.

"The PCB looks forward to building on this partnership as we collectively work towards further advancement of Pakistan cricket."

HBL PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer:

"Peshawar Zalmi’s energy, inclusivity and deep connection with fans have been central to shaping the identity of the HBL PSL. We are extremely pleased to continue this journey with Mr. Javed Afridi, who has consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment to strengthening the league and nurturing emerging talent.

"His forward-thinking approach and support have been vital to the HBL PSL’s evolution and we are excited about what the next decade of this partnership will bring."

Peshawar Zalmi remain one of the most followed and commercially successful HBL PSL franchises, with a strong legacy built through impactful fan engagement and consistently competitive performances on the field. They were also the most watched franchise of HBL PSL X, reflecting their unparalleled connection with fans across Pakistan and beyond.