'PSL over IPL' – Hasan Ali says star performances can shift fan loyalty

With the 10th edition of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) just around the corner, fast bowler Hasan Ali has voiced his confidence that strong performances by local players can reignite fan enthusiasm and further elevate the league's global reputation.

Speaking to the media during Karachi Kings' first training session at the National Stadium, Hasan stressed the importance of consistent individual performances, not only for personal growth but also for the PSL’s prestige.

“If players perform well in HBL PSL 10, the crowds will definitely return to the stadiums,” said Hasan. “The Indian Premier League (IPL) is our biggest competitor. If our players excel, cricket fans will start preferring PSL over IPL.”

Hasan, who is aiming to earn his place back in the Pakistan national team, said he is fully fit after recovering from injury and is eager to make an impact this season.

“I always try to perform wherever the team needs me. HBL PSL 10 is a golden opportunity to prove myself again and return to the national squad,” he said.

The seasoned fast bowler also lauded the appointment of Shaun Tait as Karachi Kings’ bowling coach, saying the former Australian pacer brings a wealth of experience that will prove valuable to the squad.

Reflecting on the broader landscape of Pakistan cricket, Hasan pointed out the ripple effect that national team performance has on the league.

“When the national team does well, HBL PSL’s popularity also rises. Right now, Pakistan cricket is in a transition phase with many new faces coming in. We need to support and invest in these emerging players for long-term success.”

He also credited the recently concluded National T20 Tournament for helping domestic players maintain match fitness and form. Having performed well in that tournament, Hasan hopes to continue that momentum into PSL 10.

The 2020 HBL PSL champions, Karachi Kings, have begun their official preparations at the Hanif Mohammad High Performance Centre. Their opening training session at the Oval Ground was overseen by coaches Ravi Bopara and Shaun Tait.

Ravi Bopara and Shaun Tait oversees Karachi Kings' first training session at National Stadium Karachi Kings

Local players including Shan Masood, Mir Hamza, Aamer Jamal, Umair bin Yousuf, Arafat Minhas, Hasan Ali, and Abbas Afridi took part in the session, focusing on both batting and bowling drills.

Meanwhile, the team’s foreign contingent is expected to start arriving from Tuesday. Irfan Niazi has joined the squad on April 8, following his tour of New Zealand with the national team. Newly appointed captain David Warner is set to arrive on April 10.

Karachi Kings will launch their HBL PSL 10 campaign on April 12 with a high-stakes clash against Multan Sultans at the National Stadium, Karachi.