AGENCIES
KARACHI
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) got a big boost on Sunday when maverick England cricketer Kevin Pietersen confirmed he was available for the inaugural Twenty20 event to be played in February in the UAE. According to a report in cricket.com.au, Pietersen, no stranger to the high-profile Indian Premier League, said he was keen to play. The former England batsman confirmed his participation through a video message during the launch of the PSL in Lahore on Sunday. "Absolutely buzzing to be a part of the Pakistani mela (event) coming up in February. I can't wait to get it started," Pietersen said. After being snubbed by the England cricket management, KP has been playing a lot of T20 cricket. The 35-year-old superstar played in the Caribbean Premier League and will also turn out in South Africa's Ram Slam Twenty20 competition in November. "It looks like it is going to be a wonderful competition. Lots of fun, lots of sixes, lots of wickets, typical T20 stuff. I am really excited to be a part of this wonderful tournament and excited to get going. I will see you guys soon," Pietersen said.
West Indians Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Dwayne Bravo and Sunil Narine have already confirmed their participation for PSL. Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al-Hasan, New Zealand all-rounder Grant Elliot and Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews will also play in the tournament. The inaugural season of the PSL is set to include five teams from the provincial capitals - Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar and Quetta - and include 24 matches between February 4-24. There will be a players' auction for the teams to pick their superstars.
