The Karachi Kings franchise: where’s the local investment?

[brokenrecord]

Do Karachi Kings actually do anything to invest in grassroots cricket and young cricketers in Karachi or Sindh?

The Qalandars have a great player development program (PDP), have young teams and players they send abroad for experience, do a number of open trials and overall are doing phenomenal work for grassroots cricket.

In contrast, we have the Karachi Kings. I never or barely hear about them doing anything for grassroots cricket in Karachi or Sindh really. Being the local franchise of a such big region, shouldn’t they be doing more?

They don’t seem to lack resources, always looks like a lack of interest to me.

While on that, should there be a minimum criteria for what franchises should do to develop local cricket? Besides just playing an emerging player in their teams.

 

[greatest]

Take it easy guys, it's just a club team run by an entrepreneur Salman Iqbal.

Akram and others are there just for the big bucks.

 

[brokenrecord]

LOL. Could just use some of what they spend on the bi-annual “anthems” and sideline celebs on local cricket. These days, from their draft picks to their actual cricket—there’s seems to be no method to anything. Every year there is just one major change. Here’s Dean Jones as coach (the one good call). Here’s Babar as captain. Now Imad is captain again and look we also sold Babar. Wasim Akram looks perpetually frustrated and helpless. Team spirit is non-existent. Should be some accountability somewhere.

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

The only purpose for KK is to feature in PSL. They don’t care if they make it to playoffs or not because the owner also holds the broadcasting rights, which probably makes him a lot more money than any individual franchise could make at any given season. This was the conflict of interest anyone could see from a mile away.

 

[greatest]

LOL. Could just use some of what they spend on the bi-annual “anthems” and sideline celebs on local cricket. These days, from their draft picks to their actual cricket—there’s seems to be no method to anything. Every year there is just one major change. Here’s Dean Jones as coach (the one good call). Here’s Babar as captain. Now Imad is captain again and look we also sold Babar. Wasim Akram looks perpetually frustrated and helpless. Team spirit is non-existent. Should be some accountability somewhere.

Good points!
If u want to build team spirit then hire local Karachi players and staff. Get Moin Khan and his son, Sarfaraz as well. 5/6 players should be local Karachi guys.

When you pick and choose players from different regions then they will keep jumping to other teams like Babar. Your best, iconic player or even the captain should be a local guy.

 

[MenInG]

Seems like a club for friends KK (similar to QG)

 

[Ahmad-GERMANFC]

Most Karachi ppl see Quetta as their local team

 

[Saj]

Local investment doesn't really apply to any of the franchises apart from LQ I guess who have trials.

Perhaps the PCB could implement a rule where each franchise has to include 3 or 4 local players in the squad.

 

[moghul]

Take it easy guys, it's just a club team run by an entrepreneur Salman Iqbal.

Akram and others are there just for the big bucks.

Wasim Akram is the most uselss investment, he could at least suggest some decent players to be baought . The weakest team out of all. Only two players are performing Amir and the captain. No other bowler or batter. Even from local players they picked the most useless ones like Haider and Niazi and also Sharjeel is gaining weight and losing form and form .

 

[Savak]

Salman Iqbal got the ARY rights for the PSL for 2 years. He couldn't care less otherwise. The Karachi Kings team is just a small tool to market and promote ARY, Cricket is not really an objective.

 

[Mirpuri Don]

To be honest only Lahore Qalandars seems to be interested in "talent scouting/youth development."

 

[topspin]

Most Karachi ppl see Quetta as their local team

Must be because Sarfraz Ahmed is the captain of QG.

 

[shamaan]

Wasim Akram is the most uselss investment, he could at least suggest some decent players to be baought . The weakest team out of all. Only two players are performing Amir and the captain. No other bowler or batter. Even from local players they picked the most useless ones like Haider and Niazi and also Sharjeel is gaining weight and losing form and form .

They missed a massive trick in not backing Qasim Akram who is twice the player Naizi is.

 

[zarak]

Watch them get rid of qasim and him turn out to be a gun for someone else

 

[ElRaja]

They missed a massive trick in not backing Qasim Akram who is twice the player Naizi is.

by what metric? his t20 stats are average at best, his bowling isnt particularly unique, and niazi is one of the best fielders we've seen among emerging players.

 

[shamaan]

by what metric? his t20 stats are average at best, his bowling isnt particularly unique, and niazi is one of the best fielders we've seen among emerging players.

His strike rate and average is slightly lower than Naizi but Qasim is a all rounder and goes at less than 8 rpo.Qasim Akram is also a decent fielder I have seen him take many outstanding catches but that doesn't say that Irfan Khan isn't better.

Whilst it was a different format Qasim was the outstanding player in the u19s World cup for Pakistan.

Pluss Qasim Akram knows how to bat and Irfan is just a slogger that's all.

 

[ElRaja]

His strike rate and average is slightly lower than Naizi but Qasim is a all rounder and goes at less than 8 rpo.Qasim Akram is also a decent fielder I have seen him take many outstanding catches but that doesn't say that Irfan Khan isn't better.

Whilst it was a different format Qasim was the outstanding player in the u19s World cup for Pakistan.

Pluss Qasim Akram knows how to bat and Irfan is just a slogger that's all.

ive seen him a bit, and whilst he looks ok, he does not look special as a batsman or a bowler, and kk pbly wanted a slogger deeper in the order, which would mean their choice to go with irfan or qasim would make sense even from ur view point.

 

[shamaan]

ive seen him a bit, and whilst he looks ok, he does not look special as a batsman or a bowler, and kk pbly wanted a slogger deeper in the order, which would mean their choice to go with irfan or qasim would make sense even from ur view point.

But the thing is first game they played Qasim if they wanted a slogger they should have picked irfan khan from game 1 and whilst they picked Qasim for the first game they should have given him a couple more chances.

 

[moghul]

They missed a massive trick in not backing Qasim Akram who is twice the player Naizi is.

Anyone could be better than this Niazi guy, he is not just a club level cricketer but also very selfish too, starts with tuk tukking always . Qasim Akram deserved a longer run , failed once and discarded , not good.

 

[Kianig89]

KK seems like a plastic club with no vision, if there was relegation system in PSL then KK would have gone down the hill and might have entered administration

 

[insurge]

KK is lucky Imad is in very good form, otherwise their true state would have shown.

Imad complains about picking friends in a team and then plays Malik over Qasim continuously despite Malik looking hopeless out there.

The players they let go end up being mainstays in other teams which clearly shows there is a problem with KK management, coaching and support and vision.

 

[Saj]

I repeat where is the local investment in most of these teams in the PSL?

Most of the players are already playing in domestic cricket, or have played at junior level cricket.

Very rarely will you get a Haris Rauf type scenario, but most of the time these guys are known to followers of Pakistan cricket.

 

[brokenrecord]

Local investment doesn't really apply to any of the franchises apart from LQ I guess who have trials.

Perhaps the PCB could implement a rule where each franchise has to include 3 or 4 local players in the squad.

Do you think that might be a better strategy than some onus of local investment? Whether that be trials and/or having youth teams amongst the existing local clubs structure? There can be other ways to go about it too I guess. It’ll good if even the young players known in the existing systems (like you said) might be able to benefit instead of just one or two getting fortunate if they get picked for the main squads.

 

[brokenrecord]

KK seems like a plastic club with no vision, if there was relegation system in PSL then KK would have gone down the hill and might have entered administration

Yes, that seems to be a problem with single-tier sports leagues. There’s often little motivation to do better if the ownership is okay with mediocrity.

 

[brokenrecord]

Wasim Akram is the most uselss investment, he could at least suggest some decent players to be baought . The weakest team out of all. Only two players are performing Amir and the captain. No other bowler or batter. Even from local players they picked the most useless ones like Haider and Niazi and also Sharjeel is gaining weight and losing form and form .

Wasim is an all-time great, but I don’t see what he can bring besides being a mentor like Viv Richards has been for QG. He doesn’t seem to follow local cricket and has plenty of other commitments year round. Neither is he a big coaching or strategy figure—and the coach usually is always someone else. Is he known for his excellent management skills? I don’t understand his current purpose either.

 

[brokenrecord]

Good points!
If u want to build team spirit then hire local Karachi players and staff. Get Moin Khan and his son, Sarfaraz as well. 5/6 players should be local Karachi guys.

When you pick and choose players from different regions then they will keep jumping to other teams like Babar. Your best, iconic player or even the captain should be a local guy.

Perhaps that could be one way to do it. Big-name local players could help. But there’s evidence from other PSL franchises who have been very spirited without a local core (currently or before)—like PZ, MS, or IU. I think other ways (or in combination with what you suggest) could stem from more local engagement. From investing in local development to marketing and fan engagement. And having solid backroom staff that can build winning strategies and teams (like MS or IU). Winning is a big part of drawing fans in in itself.

 

[FearlessRoar]

Fawad Ali: From Tape Ball Enthusiast to Fast Bowler Extraordinaire with the Kings Talent Programme.

Fawad Ali's journey from the dusty streets and schoolyards of Swat to the forefront of Karachi King’s cricketing talent is nothing short of remarkable. This right-arm fast bowler's story is a testament to the transformative power of the Kings Talent Programme, an initiative by Karachi Kings that aims to unearth cricketing gems from all corners of the country.

Fawad's cricketing journey began in the streets and schools, where he first fell in love with the game. Over the years, he refined his skills and emerged as a sought-after tape ball cricketer, participating in various tournaments across Pakistan.

In 2022, a pivotal decision changed the trajectory of his cricketing career.He decided to make the transition from tape ball cricket to the more challenging hardball cricket.

As fate would have it, Fawad was on the brink of participating in the final of a tape ball cricket tournament when he heard about the Karachi Kings Khiladi Ki Khoj 2023 trials taking place in Swat.

Fuelled by ambition, he made a momentous choice, opting to appear in the Kings Talent Programme trials and forsaking the final game of the tape ball competition. The punt paid off, and Fawad was elated to learn that he had been selected for the programme.

"While at the academy, we receive exceptional care and have access to all the essential facilities, from cricket nets to a swimming pool," Fawad enthusiastically revealed.

This dedication to providing top-notch facilities underscores Karachi Kings' commitment to nurturing the potential of emerging cricketers.

The watchful eye of Coach Mohammad Masroor ensures that the training sessions are purposeful and productive.

Fawad explains, "Coach Mohammad Masroor maintains a vigilant watch over our training sessions, conducting individual performance analysis and offering guidance for our continuous improvement," Fawad explained.

Additionally, the presence of a dedicated medical professional at the academy has played a pivotal role in supporting Fawad's recovery and ensuring timely treatment when required.

Jofra Archer, England's speedster, serves as Fawad's cricketing idol. His dream, like that of countless aspiring cricketers, is to don the green jersey and represent Pakistan on the international stage.

Fawad is acutely aware of the opportunity he has been granted, and he doesn't miss a chance to express his gratitude. "I am genuinely grateful to Mr. Salman Iqbal, the owner of Karachi Kings, and Karachi Kings CEO Mr. Tariq Wasi for the invaluable opportunities they have provided to players like me through the Kings Talent Programme.

Their unwavering commitment to establishing exceptional facilities at the academy showcases their dedication to our well-being," he expressed wholeheartedly.

The Kings Talent Programme, initiated in 2016, epitomizes Karachi Kings' vision to foster cricketing talent across Pakistan. This program goes beyond scouting; it acts as a crucible, shaping raw talent into the stars of Pakistan's cricketing landscape. Karachi Kings, representing the nation's largest city in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), clinched the PSL title in 2020.

Fawad Ali stands as a testament to the talent pool this franchise seeks to harness. His journey will undoubtedly inspire countless youngsters from towns and villages across Pakistan, demonstrating that dreams can be realized through dedication and the right platform.

The Kings Talent Programme is a ray of hope for those who dare to dream, offering a bridge to a brighter future for cricket in Pakistan.

 

[BouncerGuy]

Charbagh's Cricketing Prodigy, Arsalan Dost's Journey with the Kings Talent Programme

Dreams do come true, and for Arsalan Dost from the serene town of Charbagh, the dream of becoming a professional cricketer has become a reality through the Kings Talent Programme of the Karachi Kings, a Pakistan Super League franchise representing the heart and soul of Pakistan's cricketing spirit.

The journey of this right-arm fast bowler is nothing short of inspirational, as Arsalan's love for cricket was kindled on the streets of Charbagh, where he spent countless hours honing his skills with a passion that would soon be recognized at a national level. "I have cherished the game of cricket since my early days, playing in the streets, but my passion soared to new heights when I watched the Pakistan national team in action on television. Witnessing their prowess ignited my determination to pursue a career in cricket," he fondly recalls.

It all started with a post on Facebook that announced Karachi Kings – Khiladi Ki Khoj Trials in Charbagh. Arsalan decided to seize this opportunity, a choice that would change his life forever. "I came across a Facebook post announcing that Karachi Kings were organizing trials in Charbagh. Without hesitation, I decided to take a chance, and I enthusiastically participated in the trials," Arsalan recounts. Little did he know that this decision would open doors he had only dreamt of.

While Arsalan was on his journey to Umra in Saudi Arabia, he received a life-changing call that he had been selected for the Kings Talent Programme. "After returning to Pakistan, I journeyed to Karachi and became a part of the program at the academy. Since my arrival, my experience here has been nothing short of excellent," he shares with enthusiasm. It's evident that the coaching staff and support team are leaving no stone unturned to nurture Arsalan's talent.

Being part of the Kings Talent Programme is akin to living a dream for a small-town boy like Arsalan. This program is designed to not only improve the players' skills but also provide them with an opportunity to learn from the best in the business. "Being someone who has come a long way from Charbagh in KP, this presents a tremendous opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals and evolve as a more accomplished cricketer," he reflects with gratitude.

Hasan Ali, the maverick fast bowler, is Arsalan's inspiration. His heroics during the Champions Trophy in 2017 fueled Arsalan's ambition to become a fast bowler just like him. "Hasan Ali is my favorite cricketer, and his stellar performance during the 2017 Champions Trophy served as a profound inspiration for me to follow in his footsteps and become a fast bowler just like him," he confesses.

"My ultimate goal is to complete my journey in the Kings Talent Programme and wear the Karachi Kings jersey in the Pakistan Super League, with the eventual dream of representing Pakistan on the international stage," he shares. This lofty aspiration embodies the spirit of every budding cricketer who envisions donning the nation's colors.

Arsalan is grateful for the opportunity he's been given and doesn't hesitate to express his thanks. "I am immensely grateful to Mr. Salman Iqbal, the owner of Karachi Kings, and Mr. Tariq Wasi, CEO of Karachi Kings, for providing players like me with the incredible opportunity through the Kings Talent Programme. Their commitment to creating exceptional facilities here at the academy and ensuring our well-being is truly remarkable.”

The Kings Talent Programme is a testament to the vision of Karachi Kings, who have made it their mission to unearth cricketing talent from all corners of Pakistan. This initiative, which started in 2016, goes beyond merely scouting talent; it nurtures the potential of young cricketers, shaping them into future stars of Pakistan's cricketing landscape.

Karachi Kings, representing Pakistan's largest city, Karachi, in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), have already tasted success by winning the PSL title in 2020. Arsalan Dost is the living embodiment of the talent pool this franchise seeks to harness and is a testament to the transformative power of the Kings Talent Programme.

The program is being expertly overseen by the accomplished coach and a prominent member of the Karachi Kings coaching team, Mohammad Masroor. He not only spearheads the talent hunt initiative but also serves as the camp commandant for the Kings Talent Programme class of 2023.

As Arsalan continues his journey towards cricketing stardom, his story will undoubtedly inspire many other youngsters from small towns across Pakistan, showing that with dedication and the right platform, dreams can be transformed into reality. The Kings Talent Programme is a beacon of hope for those who dare to dream and is undoubtedly the stepping stone to a brighter future for cricket in Pakistan.​

 

[FearlessRoar]

Category Renewal Announcement for PSL 9 2024

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Imad in Platinum, Malik and Amir in Diamond, Tayyab and Qasim Ascend to Gold; in HBL PSL 2024 Local Player Category Renewals

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially released the list of local player category renewals, setting the stage for an exciting HBL Pakistan Super League 2024. The Karachi Kings, champions of 2020 season, witness strategic changes in the roster following the PCB's meticulous evaluation and categorization process. This move adds an extra layer of anticipation for fans eagerly awaiting the cricketing extravaganza, scheduled tentatively from 8 February to 24 March 2024.

One notable upgrade is Tayyab Tahir's ascension from the silver category to the gold category. Another significant promotion is witnessed in the case of Qasim Akram, who has transitioned from the emerging category to the prestigious gold category. Both players have earned gold status due to their representation of Pakistan in international cricket. Tayyab Tahir made his T20I debut against Afghanistan in March of this year, while Qasim captained the Pakistan squad in the Asian Games 2023. However, the renewal process has also entailed adjustments, with Haider Ali moving from the platinum category to gold. This adjustment aligns with the PCB's standards, preventing internationally represented players from being relegated below the gold category.

In accordance with the revised categorizations, Imad Wasim, Shoaib Malik, and Mohammad Amir, seasoned campaigners of the game, uphold their esteemed statuses in the Platinum and Diamond categories. Imad Wasim, the resilient captain of the Kings, remains at the forefront, leading the team with prowess in the Platinum category. Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Amir, recognized as pivotal contributors to the squad, persist in their roles within the Diamond category.

Moving on to the Gold and Silver categories, the Karachi Kings boast a dynamic mix of experience and emerging talent. In these categories, notable players include Haider Ali, Aamir Yamin, Sharjeel Khan, Mir Hamza, Tayyab Tahir, Musa Khan, and Qasim Akram in the Gold category, while the Silver category features Mohammad Ikhlaq, Mohammad Umar, and Akif Javed.

As the Karachi Kings, along with other franchises, prepare to submit relegation requests for their players, the excitement builds for the upcoming season. It is during this phase that teams will have the opportunity to meet the base category of the players, ensuring a fair and transparent process. Notably, U23 players cannot serve as Emerging players in a squad for more than two years, unless they have played nine or fewer matches in that period.

Here is the complete list of Karachi Kings' local players with their respective categories:

Platinum: Imad Wasim
Diamond: Shoaib Malik, Mohammad Amir
Gold: Haider Ali, Aamir Yamin, Sharjeel Khan, Mir Hamza, Tayyab Tahir, Musa Khan, Qasim Akram
Silver: Mohammad Ikhlaq, Mohammad Umar, Akif Javed
Emerging: Irfan Khan Niazi, Faisal Akram

 

[Kianig89]

The most pathetic squad in PSL history ever, if given the chance would sack all the person calling shots in Karachi Kings and hire a couple of Australians to put franchise back on track

 

[BunnyRabbit]

Qasim Akram hasn't developed since 2022.
Tayyab Tahir was probably selected because someone asked wasim akram to look into tayyab tahir's LA stats in last year pavilion.
Don't think any player has actually been developed in their program.
Expecting them to pick "superstars" like James fuller, Tom Lammonby, Jordan Thompson etc this season as well.

 

[7sins]

how the hack qasim promoted to gold category? as of yet he have done nothing

 

[Bewal Express]

Imad in Platinum, Malik and Amir in Diamond, Tayyab and Qasim Ascend to Gold; in HBL PSL 2024 Local Player Category Renewals

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially released the list of local player category renewals, setting the stage for an exciting HBL Pakistan Super League 2024. The Karachi Kings, champions of 2020 season, witness strategic changes in the roster following the PCB's meticulous evaluation and categorization process. This move adds an extra layer of anticipation for fans eagerly awaiting the cricketing extravaganza, scheduled tentatively from 8 February to 24 March 2024.

One notable upgrade is Tayyab Tahir's ascension from the silver category to the gold category. Another significant promotion is witnessed in the case of Qasim Akram, who has transitioned from the emerging category to the prestigious gold category. Both players have earned gold status due to their representation of Pakistan in international cricket. Tayyab Tahir made his T20I debut against Afghanistan in March of this year, while Qasim captained the Pakistan squad in the Asian Games 2023. However, the renewal process has also entailed adjustments, with Haider Ali moving from the platinum category to gold. This adjustment aligns with the PCB's standards, preventing internationally represented players from being relegated below the gold category.

In accordance with the revised categorizations, Imad Wasim, Shoaib Malik, and Mohammad Amir, seasoned campaigners of the game, uphold their esteemed statuses in the Platinum and Diamond categories. Imad Wasim, the resilient captain of the Kings, remains at the forefront, leading the team with prowess in the Platinum category. Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Amir, recognized as pivotal contributors to the squad, persist in their roles within the Diamond category.

Moving on to the Gold and Silver categories, the Karachi Kings boast a dynamic mix of experience and emerging talent. In these categories, notable players include Haider Ali, Aamir Yamin, Sharjeel Khan, Mir Hamza, Tayyab Tahir, Musa Khan, and Qasim Akram in the Gold category, while the Silver category features Mohammad Ikhlaq, Mohammad Umar, and Akif Javed.

As the Karachi Kings, along with other franchises, prepare to submit relegation requests for their players, the excitement builds for the upcoming season. It is during this phase that teams will have the opportunity to meet the base category of the players, ensuring a fair and transparent process. Notably, U23 players cannot serve as Emerging players in a squad for more than two years, unless they have played nine or fewer matches in that period.

Here is the complete list of Karachi Kings' local players with their respective categories:

Platinum: Imad Wasim
Diamond: Shoaib Malik, Mohammad Amir
Gold: Haider Ali, Aamir Yamin, Sharjeel Khan, Mir Hamza, Tayyab Tahir, Musa Khan, Qasim Akram
Silver: Mohammad Ikhlaq, Mohammad Umar, Akif Javed
Emerging: Irfan Khan Niazi, Faisal Akram

Overweight and old. Who selects this rubbish

 

[shamaan]

how the hack qasim promoted to gold category? as of yet he have done nothing

Whilst I am all for rewarding domestic cricketers he should not be Gold Category.

 

[7sins]

Whilst I am all for rewarding domestic cricketers he should not be Gold Category.

the point fo this category system is you have to earn a promotion and they are gifting promotions to every other player no wonder we are crap