Shaheen Afridi and Saud Shakeel promise epic clash in PSL X final

As the countdown begins for the grand finale of Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10, captains Shaheen Shah Afridi and Saud Shakeel have expressed confidence in their teams’ preparations and pledged to deliver an electrifying contest at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium today (Sunday).

Lahore Qalandars’ skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi, who led the franchise to consecutive titles in 2022 and 2023, is now eyeing a historic treble on home soil.

"We are buzzing to feature in our third PSL final in the last four editions, and our aim is to complete the treble at our home ground," the skipper said in a statement to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Speaking of his side's performance in the tournament, Afridi said that the turnaround in Lahore's campaign has been impressive this season, as all the players have responded well to pressure at different phases of the game.

"Our team combination backs us to be aggressive throughout with both bat and ball, which is a welcome development for any team looking to win championships," he noted.

On the other side, Quetta Gladiators captain Saud Shakeel is equally optimistic as his side returns to the PSL final for the first time since 2019, when they clinched their maiden title.

Speaking on Saturday ahead of the final, Shakeel said, “It is a great honour for me to lead the Gladiators. We will make every effort to win the tenth edition of the PSL.”

Expressing hope for an intense and high-quality contest, Shakeel remarked, “I expect fans to witness a great contest between the two sides.” He also described Gaddafi Stadium as a “lucky venue” for Quetta, expressing faith that it will once again bring fortune to his team.

The Gladiators have maintained consistent form throughout the season, with Shakeel praising the team's unity and performance. “The entire squad has been in strong form throughout the competition, and we are ready to give our best in the final,” he added.