LAHORE: West Indies pace great Courtney Walsh has arrived in Pakistan to join the Rawalpindiz squad ahead of the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which runs from 26 March to 3 May.
Walsh, who played 132 Tests and took 519 wickets during his illustrious career, has been appointed as the team’s bowling coach. He will work alongside South African legend Justin Kemp, who serves as Rawalpindiz’s head coach.
The franchise shared Walsh’s arrival on social media, describing him as “The man, the myth, the legend” joining The Pindiz. At 63, Walsh brings extensive coaching experience, having previously served as Bangladesh’s bowling coach and as head coach of the West Indies women’s cricket team.
Newcomers
This PSL season sees a historic expansion with eight teams, including newcomers Hyderabad Kingsmen and Rawalpindiz, competing across 44 matches over 39 days. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board has revised the original plans, limiting matches to Karachi and Lahore, all played behind closed doors. Initially, six cities, including Multan, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad, were considered as hosts.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi explained that the changes followed consultations with franchise owners and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Under the updated schedule, Lahore will host the Eliminators and the final, while Karachi will stage the Qualifier.
The opening match between Hyderabad Kingsmen and Lahore Qalandars remains unchanged. Organisers have promised enhanced broadcast and production features to ensure fans enjoy a superior viewing experience despite the absence of spectators.
