ISLAMABAD: Legendary West Indian cricketer Sir Vivian Richards has praised the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for its professional set-up and welcoming atmosphere, describing it as the cricketing environment he feels most at home in.
The 73-year-old has been involved with the PSL since its inception, serving as a mentor for Quetta Gladiators.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, Richards said, “The PSL has always held a special place in my heart. The atmosphere, the people, the franchise — everything feels just right. Even after ten years, it still feels like the very first day,” he remarked.
Richards, who was instrumental in the West Indies’ World Cup victories in 1975 and 1979, acknowledged the league’s significant growth and its role in delivering high-quality cricket.
Thrilling encounters
“The PSL has produced some truly thrilling encounters and has played a key part in developing top-class talent from Pakistan. It’s a league that truly merits wider international recognition,” he said.
Renowned for his aggressive batting long before the T20 format existed, Richards also reflected on how well his style would have suited the modern game.
“With the kind of bats they use nowadays, I reckon I would have been even more destructive. T20 cricket would have suited my approach perfectly,” he stated.
He also pointed out how contemporary white-ball cricket increasingly favours the batters, particularly with the use of two new balls in one-day internationals.
“Fans want to see big shots, and the game is evolving in that direction,” he added.
Commenting on Quetta Gladiators’ current campaign, Richards expressed optimism.
“We’re building momentum, and our aim is to stay competitive and recapture our winning ways. The ultimate dream is to reach the final and lift the trophy once more,” he concluded.
