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Former Pakistan Super League (PSL) champions, Quetta Gladiators, have announced left-handed middle-order batter Saud Shakeel as their new captain for the upcoming HBL PSL 10, scheduled for the April-May window.
The franchise revealed the news on Friday through their social media channels, accompanied by an animated image of Saud Shakeel dressed in the Gladiators’ signature vest, confidently riding a horse. The announcement read:
“Introducing the new Commander of the Gladiators, Saud Shakeel. With fresh energy and unshakable determination, he’s ready to lead Quetta Gladiators to glory in Pakistan Super League 10. The rise of the Gladiators begins now!”
A New Leadership Era
This move signifies a strategic shift for the Gladiators as they rebuild after a challenging PSL season last year. Saud Shakeel, who impressed with his consistent performances in PSL 2024, emerged as a natural choice for the leadership role.
Shakeel finished last season with 323 runs in 10 matches, maintaining a strike rate of 141.66. His two half-centuries earned him the position of seventh-highest run-scorer of the tournament.
The Gladiators, who last lifted the trophy in 2019, believe Shakeel’s fresh perspective and leadership skills will drive them toward their goal of reclaiming PSL glory.
Replacing Rilee Rossouw
Shakeel takes over from South Africa’s Rilee Rossouw, who captained the Gladiators during PSL 2024. Rossouw managed to secure the team’s first playoff spot in three years but fell short of taking them to the final.
The change in captaincy follows the team’s broader strategy to rejuvenate its performance. Former long-time captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, who led the Gladiators to their maiden PSL title in 2019, stepped down from the role last year but continues to contribute as the team’s wicketkeeper-batter.
Eyes on PSL 2025
With Saud Shakeel at the helm, the Quetta Gladiators are set to embark on a new chapter in their PSL journey. The team hopes Shakeel’s leadership will pave the way for a second PSL title and restore their dominance in the league.
The Gladiators’ fans are eagerly waiting to see their new captain in action as PSL 10 approaches. Will this change in leadership mark the beginning of a successful era for Quetta Gladiators? Only time will tell!
