LAHORE: Australian middle-order batsman Ashton Turner hailed the Pakistan Super League (PSL) as one of the premier franchises in world cricket, while expressing his excitement at helping Multan write a new chapter under new ownership.
Speaking at the recent captains’ conference, Turner fondly reflected on his experiences playing in Pakistan, praising the extraordinary hospitality extended to the touring teams.
“First of all, especially Australians who have the opportunity to come to Pakistan—we’re very lucky. We’re very well looked after,” Turner said.
The right-hander emphasized the growing global stature of the PSL and the sense of opportunity presented by the revamped Multan franchise.
“PSL is becoming the best tournament for franchise cricketers in the world. Multan has a chance to write the first page of our history. Although there is some continuity from the previous Multan team, it feels like a new chapter with a new franchise,” he said.
Turner noted the palpable excitement surrounding the team’s restructured organization, which includes a new team and coaching staff.
“We have a new team and a new coaching staff. It’s a very exciting time. That’s the nature of modern franchise cricket,” he added.
He concluded by expressing his expectation for a high caliber tournament in Pakistan.
“We are excited. As you mentioned, Pakistan has many talented players and it is really exciting to participate in this tournament,” he said.
The upcoming PSL season marks a significant expansion, with eight teams competing for the first time and scheduled to run from March 26 to May 3.
New owners Hyderabad Kingsmen and Rawalpindis join forces in the tournament, which will feature 44 matches in 39 days.
Instead of playing behind closed doors at six venues including Multan, Peshawar, Rawalpindi and Faisalabad, the Pakistan Cricket Board has revised its logistics and limited matches to Karachi and Lahore.
Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the decision after consultation with the owners and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Lahore Eliminators 1,2 and Final, Karachi the Qualifier, Hyderabad Kingsmen vs Lahore Qalandars opener unchanged.
Turner’s side will open their campaign against Islamabad United at the Gaddafi Stadium, with organizers promising improved broadcast features to compensate for the absence of spectators.
Multan Sultans Squad for PSL 11: Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Ahmed Daniel, Saad Masood, Steve Smith, Jahanzaib Sultan, Sahibzada Farhan, Ashton Turner (caught), Peter Siddle, Tabriz Shamsi, Lachlan Shaw, Delano Potgieter, Josh Ma Phillip, Muhammad Sham Phillip, Josh Ma Phillip.