(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Lahore Qalandars Celebrate PSL Victory with Overseas Players in London
LONDON: In a unique and heartwarming gesture, reigning Pakistan Super League (PSL) champions Lahore Qalandars brought their championship trophy to the United Kingdom to celebrate with their overseas stars, Sam Billings and Tom Curran, who missed the final matches of the tournament.
The special event was hosted at the Pakistan High Commission in London by Dr. Mohammad Faisal, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK. The gathering was attended by key members of the Qalandars’ management, including CEO Atif Rana, COO Sameen Rana, and team captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, alongside UK-based players and notable guests.
Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Najam Sethi, journalist Jugnu Mohsin, and members of the Pakistani community and media also joined the celebration.
Speaking to media, Shaheen Shah Afridi, who led the team to their third PSL title in just four years, highlighted the team’s focus on developing local talent. “Winning three titles in four years is a huge achievement. It reflects the strength of our player development program, which helps young players grow into top performers,” he said.
Shaheen also explained the decision to bring the trophy to the UK: “Sam and Tom weren’t able to be with us for the final, so we brought the trophy to them. That’s what makes Lahore Qalandars special — we celebrate as a family.”
Sam Billings praised the inclusive culture within the franchise, saying: “Sameen and Shaheen have created an environment where every player feels valued. That’s why so many of us thrive in this team.”
Echoing similar feelings, Tom Curran shared: “From the start, it felt like home. The entire Qalandars team made us feel welcomed and appreciated, even during tough times.”
CEO Atif Rana thanked the High Commission for hosting the celebration and acknowledged the support of the UK-based Pakistani community. “Our fans in the UK are an important part of the Qalandars family. We’re here to celebrate with them and show our gratitude,” he said.
COO Sameen Rana announced plans to expand the team’s presence in the UK by holding overseas trials and building collaborations with county cricket clubs, aiming to give young Pakistani players international exposure.
Najam Sethi, credited with launching the PSL, reflected on the team’s journey: “At first, I was unsure about naming the team ‘Qalandars.’ I thought it needed a warrior name. But Atif’s vision of highlighting Sufi values has given the franchise a unique identity. Today, Lahore Qalandars is one of the most beloved teams in the league.”
Host Dr. Mohammad Faisal expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments, saying, “It’s a pleasure to welcome our cricket heroes. While this was a small gathering, we hope to celebrate even bigger achievements in the future.”
The event served as a powerful symbol of Lahore Qalandars’ growing influence not just in Pakistan, but across the cricketing world — reflecting their commitment to talent development, inclusivity, and community engagement.
