Hasan Ali Optimistic About PSL's Appeal Amid IPL Clash
Hasan Ali's Confidence in PSL Amid IPL Competition
Karachi [Pakistan], April 9: With the schedules of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and the Indian Premier League (IPL) overlapping this season, right-arm fast bowler Hasan Ali expressed his belief that fans might choose PSL over IPL if the players deliver outstanding performances.
Traditionally held from February to March, the PSL has been rescheduled to April and May due to Pakistan's busy international calendar. This adjustment has resulted in a direct clash with the ongoing 18th edition of the lucrative IPL.
Despite the IPL's reputation as the premier T20 league globally, Hasan remains hopeful that viewers will opt for PSL if the players elevate their game. He stated, “Fans are drawn to tournaments that showcase quality cricket and entertainment. If we excel in the PSL, they will switch from IPL to watch us,” he told reporters, as reported by a Media House ahead of the PSL opener on Friday.
Representing the Karachi Kings in this year's tournament, Hasan reflected on Pakistan's disappointing international cricket results. The team's struggles have been evident since 2023, with recent performances highlighting their challenges.
Under the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan's title defense in the Champions Trophy ended prematurely, with the team facing two consecutive defeats against New Zealand and India.
Following this setback, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shifted its focus towards building a competitive squad for the T20 World Cup in 2026 and the ODI World Cup in 2027.
Shortly after the Champions Trophy, Pakistan embarked on a white-ball tour of New Zealand, which included five T20 matches and three ODIs. The T20 squad featured a mix of new talent and seasoned players, but they suffered a 4-1 series defeat.
In the ODI series, Rizwan and Babar Azam, who were absent during the T20 matches, returned to the lineup. However, their presence did not change the outcome, as Pakistan was swept 3-0 by the Kiwis.
“The performance of the national team affects franchise leagues like the PSL,” Hasan noted. “However, when the national side performs well, it positively influences the PSL's popularity,” he added.
“Although the current results are not favorable, we have new talent in the team and management that require time to adjust. The players are aware of their shortcomings and areas for improvement,” Hasan concluded, expressing support for the younger players.