KARACHI: Defending champions Lahore Qalandars today announced the signing of Sri Lankan batting all-rounder Sarit Asalanga for the remainder of Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 11.
Asalanga replaces Bangladesh wicketkeeper-batsman Pervez Hossain Emon, who has been ruled out of the tournament due to injury.
The left-arm batsman and skilled off-spin bowler brings considerable international experience, having represented Sri Lanka in all formats.
His arrival is expected to strengthen the Qalandars’ middle order as the team enters the crucial final stages of the tournament.
Emon suffered a shoulder injury during Lahore Qalandars’ recent match against Multan Sultans in Lahore.
The injury followed an on-field collision with Asif Ali, resulting in a torn ligament. He made three appearances for the Callanders this season.
Asalanga is set to join the squad ahead of Lahore Qalandars’ match against Quetta Gladiators on April 17.
The franchise is currently sixth in the table with two wins and three losses from five matches. Chasing 174 runs, Peshawar are coming off a heavy defeat against Zalmi after being bowled out for just 97 runs in 17 overs.
Batting first, Peshawar Zalmi scored 173-7 in 20 overs thanks to Gusal Mendis’ brilliant 74 off 48 balls, including 5 fours and 4 sixes.
Babar Azam batted steadily for 43 off 40 balls, while Michael Bracewell provided a burst of inspiration with 21 off ten balls.
In response, the Qalandars’ pursuit did not gain momentum. Faqar Zaman and Abdullah Shafiq scored 21 runs each, while Dunith Vellalaghe scored 20 runs. However, the team fell well short of the target and were bowled out within 100 runs.
Zalmi captain Shaheen Afridi led the bowling and impressed with 3/22 from four overs.
Michael Bracewell and Subian Mukeem took three wickets each, while Mustafizur Rahman took two wickets. Ubaid Shah, Usama Mir, Nahid Rana, Shoribul Islam and Amir Jamal took one wicket each.
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