The Rawalpindi Express claimed that many franchises were looking to sell their brands
02 June, 2020
PHOTO: AFP
Pakistan’s legendary pacer Shoaib Akhtar, during a local television show, claimed that he could save the Pakistan Super League (PSL) from an economic crisis in the near future after stating that the event will not take place for another 18 months.
The Rawalpindi Express claimed that many franchises were looking to sell their brands and he would be more than happy to provide financial along with non-monetary support to keep the PSL thriving and alive.
“I will have to say some stern things, which people might not like. The PSL will probably have to wait for another 16 months. It will happen after this time. The World Cup will take place after 8 months. You can do the math yourself. If this issue stretches till September, how can you prepare for the PSL in four months? You will not be able to ask for money from the franchises. Some franchises are already ready to sell their brand. The offers are on the table and they are ready" he said.
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"If I can save PSL as a senior player and as a brand, I will definitely come forward. I will come with full force and money and will save the PSL. I will make sure that the PSL thrives and stays alive and it gets big brands to make progress,” he added.
The 44-year-old rubbished claims that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was working towards postponing the upcoming Twenty20 (T20) World Cup in order to hold the Indian Premier League (IPL), while stating that the decision on the mega event would be taken by the Australian government.
“I don’t think the decision for the T20 World cup lies with the BCCI or Cricket Australia (CA). This decision will rely on the government. Their policies will dictate the final decision. They will keep the health of the people first without paying heed to other forces. They will not decide based on what India wants. Australia is Australia. When it comes to having a series, the World Cup or the IPL, the decision lies with the government. Going from city to city would be very difficult. Who knows what the future holds for everyone. It is a very uncertain and dicey situation," he said.
"You can’t manage a World Cup, especially without crowds, during these circumstances. There are a lot of factors involved such as hoteling, traveling, room service and so many other things through which you can get the virus,” he concluded.
