Saturday, April 12, 2025

Only 1 player has 100+ sixes in the PSL, but who else features among the top 9?

Only 1 player has 100+ sixes in the PSL, but who else features among the top 9?

As much as wickets are important, the currency of T20 cricket is runs. And when it comes to currency, we all know that the bigger the denomination, the better. Which is why being able to clear the fence is such a key skill in the shortest version of the game.

Those batsmen who can hit sixes, even when they don’t time the shot properly, are the stars of T20 cricket and the players that nobody wants to bowl at.

As the new season of the Pakistan Super League looms on the horizon, with the first game set to take place on Friday between defending champions Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars, let’s take a moment to reflect on which batsmen have struck the most sixes in the history of the tournament.

Here’s a look at the top nine six-hitters in PSL history—players who have not just made big scores but done so in the most brutal fashion imaginable.

9. Colin Munro – 72 PSL sixes

The hard-hitting New Zealand batter has been a valuable asset for Islamabad United over the years. With a game built on natural power and a fearless attitude, Munro is capable of decimating bowling attacks from the outset.

His ability to find the boundary with ease makes him one of the most destructive openers in PSL history. What sets Munro apart is his consistency in hitting big shots without taking too long to get set.

With a strike rate over 150 and a healthy six count of 71, he’s been a nightmare for new-ball bowlers across the league.

8. Sharjeel Khan – 74 PSL sixes

One of the most naturally gifted stroke-makers Pakistan has produced in recent times, Sharjeel Khan has thrilled PSL audiences with his fearless approach.

Whether playing for Islamabad United or Karachi Kings, he’s always been about explosive starts and aggressive stroke play. Sharjeel’s comeback to cricket after a ban was met with scepticism, but he quickly reminded fans of his devastating potential.

His strike rate of 140 and 74 sixes are testament to his no-holds-barred style.

7. Kieron Pollard – 77 PSL sixes

The big West Indies star has been a T20 colossus all over the globe, and the PSL is no exception.

Kieron Pollard might not have played as many matches as some on this list, but he’s made every appearance count with his sheer muscle power and ruthless finishing ability.

His strike rate of 162.28 is one of the best in the league’s history, and his 77 sixes reflect how frequently he sends the ball into the stands. Whether at the death or in a counterattack role, Pollard’s impact is instant.

Also read: Who is the only overseas player among the top 9 batters with the most runs in Pakistan Super League?

6. Rilee Rossouw – 79 PSL sixes

The South African left-hander has built a reputation in the PSL as one of the most reliable overseas stars. Often anchoring the middle order for Multan Sultans, Rossouw combines elegance with raw hitting power.

His 79 sixes often come in clusters — when Rossouw gets going, he stays in top gear. With a strong base, quick hands and the ability to accelerate at will, he’s been a key figure in the Sultans’ recent success stories.

5. Shane Watson – 81 PSL sixes

Now retired, Shane Watson remains one of the greatest all-round performers the PSL has ever seen. His time with Quetta Gladiators was marked by powerful hitting, particularly at the top of the order where he often dominated the powerplay.

Watson’s 81 sixes were frequently match-defining, and he was a consistent performer despite advancing age and a long career behind him. A strike rate close to 140 shows how relentless he was at punishing poor deliveries – and some not so poor ones as well.

4. Shoaib Malik – 82 PSL sixes

A veteran of Pakistan cricket, Shoaib Malik’s six-hitting might not be as aggressive or flashy as others on this list, but his tally of 82 sixes is a testament to longevity, smart batting, and impeccable timing.

Malik has played for multiple PSL teams and maintained a steady presence in the middle order. While his strike rate of 128.07 is on the lower side, it’s his knack for clearing the ropes at crucial moments that’s made him such a reliable performer over the years.

3. Kamran Akmal – 89 PSL sixes

A PSL original and a mainstay for Peshawar Zalmi, Kamran Akmal’s explosive opening stands have lit up many PSL seasons. With three centuries to his name in the league, Akmal often set the tone early in the innings.

His 89 sixes are a mix of elegant flicks, booming drives, and pick-up shots over square leg. While his international career fizzled out, he found a second wind in franchise cricket — and the PSL in particular — where he redefined himself as a six-hitting machine.

2. Asif Ali – 90 PSL sixes

When it comes to raw six-hitting ability, Asif Ali is in a class of his own. He’s built a career, and a reputation, on his ability to clear the ropes under pressure.

For Islamabad United, Asif has been the designated finisher for years, and his numbers justify the faith. With 90 sixes and a strike rate of 156.51, Asif’s role has been to change the narrative of the game in 10 balls or fewer.

While his consistency has sometimes come into question, his ability to win matches with brute force remains undeniable.

1. Fakhar Zaman – 104 PSL sixes

At the top of this explosive list is Fakhar Zaman, the PSL’s undisputed king of sixes. With 104 sixes, Fakhar stands alone as the only batsman to have crossed the 100-mark barrier in the PSL’s history.

His left-handed flair, aggressive intent, and hunger for big scores have made him the poster boy of Lahore Qalandars.

Fakhar doesn’t just start well — he often goes big, and it’s those innings that have helped him rack up sixes at will. His strike rate of 140.27 is impressive given the volume of innings he’s played, and it’s clear he thrives under pressure.

Read next: Is Jason Roy’s 145 for Quetta Gladiators in 2023 still the highest individual score in the PSL?

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Friday, April 11, 2025

Gone, but never forgotten – remembering 6 Test cricketers who tragically passed in their prime

Gone, but never forgotten – remembering 6 Test cricketers who tragically passed in their prime

In a sport that often celebrates longevity – players grinding through the physical and mental demands of a long international career – it is particularly heartbreaking when a promising cricketer’s journey is halted by tragedy.

While fans are used to farewells and retirements, nothing quite prepares us for the abruptness of death cutting short what might have been a legendary career.

Here are some international cricketers whose lives and careers ended far too soon.

1. Ben Hollioake (England)

ODIs: 20 | Tests: 2

Ben Hollioake was England’s golden boy in the late 1990s. Making his debut in 1997 at just 19, he dazzled with a flamboyant 63 against Australia in an ODI at Lord’s.

A smooth right-hander and a more than handy medium pacer, he was seen as a long-term all-round option for England. But his life and career were tragically cut short in March 2002, when he died in a car crash in Perth at just 24 years old.

He had only recently returned to the England fold and was expected to tour India. His death stunned the cricketing world.

2. Phil Hughes (Australia)

ODIs: 25 | Tests: 26

Phil Hughes’ death in 2014 sent shockwaves far beyond cricket. Struck on the back of the head by a bouncer during a Sheffield Shield game, he suffered a vertebral artery dissection that proved fatal two days later.

Hughes was just 25 and had already achieved much — including twin centuries in only his second Test. On the verge of a national recall, he had unfinished business in Australian colours. His loss led to sweeping changes in player safety and protective equipment.

Also read: Will Pucovski, Mark Boucher, James Taylor and 6 other cricketers who retired early amid health concerns

3. Chud Langton (South Africa)

Tests: 1

Chud Langton was one of many cricketers whose lives were taken during World War II. A promising left-arm paceman, he played a single Test for South Africa against Australia in 1939.

Langton’s first-class record was strong, and he was tipped for a successful career, but he was killed in action during the war in Egypt in 1942. His story is a sobering reminder of how global conflict shaped cricket history, particularly in that era.

4. Ross Gregory (Australia)

Tests: 2

Ross Gregory was seen as the next big thing in Australian cricket. A teenage prodigy, he made his Test debut at just 20 and scored two half-centuries in his first two matches during the 1936–37 Ashes in England.

A stylish right-hander, Gregory was a contemporary of Don Bradman and was expected to be a regular fixture in the Australian top order. But World War II intervened.

Gregory joined the Royal Australian Air Force and was killed in action during a bombing mission over Burma in 1942 at the age of just 26.

5. Manjural Islam Rana (Bangladesh)

ODIs: 25 | Tests: 6

A steady left-arm spinner and lower-order batsman, Manjural Islam Rana was seen as a long-term all-round option for Bangladesh. He became the youngest Test player to die when he passed away in a motorcycle accident in 2007 at just 22 years old.

Rana’s passing halted the career of a cricketer who had shown genuine promise, especially with his tight control and calm temperament.

6. Runako Morton (West Indies)

ODIs: 56 | Tests: 15 | T20Is: 7

Runako Morton’s talent was matched by controversy. Known for his powerful stroke play and presence at the crease, Morton was often in and out of the West Indies side during the 2000s.

His career never quite took off the way many had hoped, but he remained a fixture in Caribbean domestic cricket. In 2012, at just 33, Morton died in a car crash in Trinidad. His death was yet another blow to a cricketing region that had seen several premature farewells.

Read next: Did Chris Gayle get named in this West Indies’ best Test XI of the past 40 years?

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Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Women’s cricket is on the rise – teams, leagues and players who are leading the way

Women’s cricket is on the rise – teams, leagues and players who are leading the way

For many years, women’s cricket remained in the shadows of their male counterparts – economically, in media exposure, and culturally, just like so many other sports, women were severely underrepresented in cricket. While women have been playing the sport for decades, it never truly broke through on a global scale and remained professionally structured only in a handful of countries. But this seems to be changing. In recent years, women have stepped out of the shadows and have proven that they are just as skilled, professional, and competitive. Live matches, sponsorship deals, and broader visibility have helped push female athletes further into the spotlight. But what does the future hold for them?

From obscurity to visibility

Women’s cricket has transformed from an almost invisible sport to a recognized part of the global cricket landscape over the past decade or so. In its early days, women’s teams were largely self-organized, playing outside formal structures with limited access to training facilities. Few international matches were broadcast, and media coverage was nearly nonexistent. That reality has changed, especially over the past decade, thanks to an increase in both performance level and institutional support. Today, a foundation has been built that will allow the sport to grow across regions and formats in the future.

Support from governing bodies

One of the key challenges for the future of women’s cricket lies in the development of sustainable leagues and international competitions. The creation of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) in India, along with the expansion of formats like The Hundred in England and the Women’s Big Bash League in Australia, shows that meaningful progress is underway. These leagues offer not just financial incentives, but also elite-level competition and visibility – both of which are vital elements for nurturing and retaining global talent. Increasingly, national cricket boards are adopting formal strategies for the women’s game that include both elite development and grassroots investment. This strengthens the broader structure and secures long-term viability.

Expanding the sport globally

While women’s cricket has historically been dominated by traditional powerhouses like England, Australia, and India, the sport is steadily spreading to new regions. Recently, the ICC has increased its focus on promoting women’s cricket in developing and associate member countries. The results are beginning to show: teams like Thailand, Bangladesh, and the United States are now participating more regularly in ICC tournaments.

Talent development is key

Investment in talent development is essential to securing long-term progress. Several countries have already begun integrating female players into their national cricket academies, giving them access to professional coaching, physical training, and sports psychology from an early age. These development environments—previously reserved for male players—are becoming accessible to women as well, in many cases even earlier in their careers.

Challenges and potential

Despite the positive momentum, women’s cricket still faces significant structural challenges. Pay inequality, disparities in media exposure, and uneven access to facilities continue to limit the sport’s full potential. Yet the direction is clear. With a focused strategy, greater investment, and continued global cooperation, further growth seems not only possible—but likely. The future of women’s cricket will depend on the sport’s ability to maintain interest, raise the level of competition, and ensure equal opportunities for professional careers in the sport.

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Is Jason Roy’s 145 for Quetta Gladiators in 2023 still the highest individual score in the PSL?

Is Jason Roy’s 145 for Quetta Gladiators in 2023 still the highest individual score in the PSL?

T20 cricket lends itself to all or nothing knocks, where batsmen look to go from the first ball, and they don’t let up until they are back in the pavilion.

It is the same with franchise cricket the world over, so it should come as no surprise that over the course of its ten-year history, the Pakistan Super League has seen some incredible innings.

With the latest season of the PSL set to start on Friday, let’s take a moment to go back in time and look at the seven highest knocks of all time in the Pakistan Super League…

7. Martin Guptill – 117 from 67 balls

Quetta Gladiators vs Karachi Kings, 2023

New Zealand’s white-ball specialist Martin Guptill built a career on explosive starts and power-packed stroke play.

In the 2023 season, playing for the Quetta Gladiators, Guptill delivered a brutal reminder of his talents with a masterful 117 off 67 balls against the Karachi Kings.

His innings was a mix of brute force and timing, peppered with 12 fours and 5 sixes, and it came at a time when Quetta were desperate for momentum. Though known more for his international exploits, this innings ranks among the most complete knocks in PSL history.

6. Sharjeel Khan – 117 from 62 balls

Islamabad United vs Peshawar Zalmi, 2016

Back in the inaugural season of the PSL in 2016, Sharjeel Khan announced himself with a thunderous innings of 117 off 62 balls for Islamabad United.

The left-hander from Hyderabad, Pakistan, was in no mood to take prisoners as he smashed his way to the first-ever century in PSL history.

Facing a strong Peshawar Zalmi bowling line-up, Sharjeel dismantled the attack with 12 fours and 8 sixes, setting the tone for how the PSL could become a haven for explosive T20 batting. It was one of the standout moments of the league’s first year.

Also read: Who is the only overseas player among the top 9 batters with the most runs in Pakistan Super League?

5. Cameron Delport – 117 not out from 60 balls

Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars, 2019

South Africa all-rounder Cameron Delport has had stints in leagues all over the world, but one of his finest innings came in the PSL for Islamabad United in 2019.

Up against the Lahore Qalandars, Delport produced a sizzling unbeaten 117 from just 60 deliveries. It was a knock full of muscular hitting—13 fours and 6 sixes—as he powered United to a massive total.

What stood out was his ability to keep accelerating through the innings without losing control. Delport’s innings remains one of the cleanest displays of hitting the league has seen.

4. Usman Khan – 120 from 43 balls

Multan Sultans vs Quetta Gladiators, 2023

One of the most unexpected and explosive innings in PSL history came from Usman Khan, a lesser-known name in international cricket but a rising force in domestic and franchise T20s.

Playing for the Multan Sultans in 2023, Usman blasted a blistering 120 off just 43 balls against the Quetta Gladiators. It was a demolition job of the highest order.

He reached his hundred in just 36 balls—the fastest century in PSL history at the time—and his boundary count included 12 fours and 9 sixes. This innings not only lit up the tournament but also catapulted Usman into the spotlight.

3. Rilee Rossouw – 121 from 51 balls

Multan Sultans vs Peshawar Zalmi, 2023

The 2023 season was full of fireworks, and one of the brightest came from Rilee Rossouw, the South African left-hander known for his elegant aggression.

Representing the Multan Sultans, Rossouw unleashed mayhem on Peshawar Zalmi, scoring 121 from 51 balls in a high-octane chase.

With the Sultans pursuing a massive target, Rossouw held nothing back—his innings featured 12 fours and 8 sixes, and he reached his hundred in just 41 balls. It was not just one of the highest individual scores in the PSL, but also one of the most impactful in terms of match context.

2. Colin Ingram – 127 not out from 59 balls

Karachi Kings vs Quetta Gladiators, 2019

When Colin Ingram gets going, there are few bowlers in T20 cricket who can stop him.

In the 2019 edition, the South African left-hander, playing for Karachi Kings, smashed an unbeaten 127 off 59 balls against Quetta Gladiators—a record at the time.

What made the innings remarkable was not just the score, but the chase. Karachi were up against a stiff target, and Ingram’s knock single-handedly carried them home. He struck 12 fours and 8 sixes, finishing the game with authority and etching his name into PSL folklore.

1. Jason Roy – 145 not out from 63 balls

Quetta Gladiators vs Peshawar Zalmi, 2023

The highest individual score in PSL history belongs to England’s Jason Roy, and what an innings it was. Playing for the Quetta Gladiators in 2023, Roy bludgeoned a staggering 145 not out from 63 balls against Peshawar Zalmi in Rawalpindi.

It was a chasing masterclass. Roy’s innings featured 20 fours and 5 sixes, and he barely gave the bowlers a moment to breathe.

The target was 241—a daunting task by any standard—but Roy made a mockery of it, leading the Gladiators to a record-breaking win. This innings didn’t just rewrite the PSL record books—it showed how one man, on one night, can own a game completely.

Read next: Who is the only overseas player among the top 9 batters with the most runs in Pakistan Super League?

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Monday, April 7, 2025

There will be a new number 1 among the top 9 wicket-takers in the Pakistan Super League this season

There will be a new number 1 among the top 9 wicket-takers in the Pakistan Super League this season

With the Pakistan Super League set to resume in little under a week, you may be wondering which bowlers have enjoyed the greatest success in Asia’s second-biggest franchise competition.

Some may think that Pakistan is a spin-friendly place, but don’t forget, this is a country that has given us the likes of Imran Khan, Shoaib Akhtar, Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis. You shouldn’t be surprised at all then when you hear that the list is dominated by quicks.

The Pakistan Super League commenced in 2016, and it has been played every season since. Across its nine editions, several bowlers have left their mark, but only nine have managed to break through the 60-wicket barrier.

Interestingly, all of them are homegrown talents. Let’s take a look at the top nine wicket-takers in PSL history.

9. Imad Wasim – 63 wickets from 90 PSL T20s | Average: 31.57

A dependable left-arm spinner, Imad Wasim has been a key contributor for Karachi Kings.

While not the most prolific wicket-taker in terms of strike rate, Imad has built a reputation for being economical and frustrating batters in the powerplay. His canny variations and calm leadership have served him well in the PSL.

8. Haris Rauf – 66 wickets from 57 PSL T20s | Average: 29.54

One of the league’s fastest bowlers, Haris Rauf made his name in the PSL before becoming a regular in the national team. Bowling with pace, aggression, and a sharp bouncer, Rauf has picked up 66 wickets in just 57 games.

His ability to bowl at the death has been a game-changer for Lahore Qalandars.

7. Mohammad Nawaz – 72 wickets from 84 PSL T20s | Average: 28.65

Mohammad Nawaz has quietly become one of the PSL’s most consistent spinners. Representing Quetta Gladiators, Nawaz combines tight lines with clever use of flight and changes of pace.

His ability to contribute with both bat and ball has made him a key asset over the years.

6. Mohammad Amir – 73 wickets from 75 PSL T20s | Average: 28.68

A veteran of the PSL, Mohammad Amir has delivered some magical spells in the competition.

While his pace may have dipped slightly in recent years, his accuracy and swing continue to make him a threat, especially with the new ball.

Also read: Who is the only overseas player among the top 9 batters with the most runs in Pakistan Super League?

5. Faheem Ashraf – 78 wickets from 72 PSL T20s | Average: 24.92

Often underrated, Faheem Ashraf has quietly compiled a superb record in the PSL.

Known for his clever variations and slower deliveries, Faheem has been a consistent wicket-taker for Islamabad United, doing plenty of damage by picking up crucial scalps in the middle overs.

4. Shadab Khan – 91 wickets from 84 PSL T20s | Average: 25.38

Captain of Islamabad United, Shadab Khan is the highest-ranked spinner on this list. A wrist-spinner with a fantastic googly and excellent control, he has often turned games with quick bursts of wickets.

His ability to lead from the front and contribute with the bat as well has made him one of the PSL’s most revered players.

3. Shaheen Shah Afridi – 103 wickets from 71 PSL T20s | Average: 21.02

Still only 24, Shaheen Afridi has already crossed the 100-wicket milestone in the Pakistan Super League. His left-arm angle, express pace, and pinpoint yorkers make him a lethal option in all phases of the game.

As captain of Lahore Qalandars, he has led the franchise to multiple titles, and his performances continue to improve season after season.

2. Hasan Ali – 108 wickets from 82 PSL T20s | Average: 22.96

Hasan Ali has been one of the most consistent performers in the PSL since its inception. His strike rate and knack for taking wickets at critical moments have made him a match-winner across multiple campaigns.

Whether playing for Peshawar Zalmi or Islamabad United, Hasan brings energy, aggression, and skill to every outing. He can overtake Riaz this season.

1. Wahab Riaz – 113 wickets from 88 PSL T20s | Average: 22.68

Topping the list is veteran paceman Wahab Riaz. With 113 wickets, Wahab is the PSL’s all-time leading wicket-taker.

Known for his fiery spells and never-say-die attitude, Wahab has led the bowling attack for Peshawar Zalmi with distinction

Read next: Full list of captains for 2025 Indian Premier League

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Where do England’s David Willey, Tymal Mills and Chris Jordan rank among top 7 wicket-takers in PSL from overseas?

Where do England’s David Willey, Tymal Mills and Chris Jordan rank among top 7 wicket-takers in PSL from overseas?

The Pakistan Super League had its first season in 2016, which means when it returns to action at the end of the week it will be heading into its tenth season.

It has proved to be a highly successful tournament, and while to some extent it exists in the shadows of the more lucrative IPL, it is still a prestigious event and one that has seen a host of overseas stars in action.

It is interesting to note that bowling success in the PSL is very much the domain of local players. In terms of leading wicket takers, the top ten bowlers are all Pakistani players.

Even the highest ranked non-Pakistani player was born in Pakistan before going on to qualify for another country. With this in mind, let’s take a look to see who are the most successful non-Pakistani bowlers to have turned out in the PSL…

7. Shane Watson (Australia)

46 PSL matches, 23 wickets, average: 26.60

While Watson made his name in franchise cricket primarily as a destructive batter, his medium pace bowling was consistently effective in the PSL.

Turning out for franchises like Quetta Gladiators and Islamabad United, Watson often chipped in with crucial overs, particularly in powerplays or to break key partnerships. His economy may not have always stood out, but his knack for delivering in pressure moments made him a valuable all-round asset.

6. David Willey (England)

19 PSL matches, 28 wickets, average: 18.35

Despite not having played as many matches as others on this list, David Willey’s strike rate in the PSL is exceptional. The English left-armer has been lethal with the new ball, swinging it early on, and is also a handy death-overs bowler.

His average of 18.35 is among the best for foreign players in the league. Playing for Multan Sultans and Lahore Qalandars at various points, Willey’s left-arm angle and variation have proved tough to handle for batters.

Also read: Who is the only overseas player among the top 9 batters with the most runs in Pakistan Super League?

5. Tymal Mills (England)

28 PSL matches, 34 wickets, average: 24.35

Tymal Mills has become a sought-after T20 specialist around the globe, and the PSL is no exception. Known for his sheer pace and deceptive slower balls, Mills has been especially dangerous at the death.

Representing franchises like Quetta Gladiators and Karachi Kings, he has delivered spells that turned matches around. Injuries may have hampered his consistency, but when fit and firing, Mills has been a force in PSL’s high-pressure contests.

4. David Wiese (Namibia)

53 PSL matches, 38 wickets, average: 31.57

Wiese, who qualified for Namibia after representing South Africa earlier in his career, has been a stalwart for the Lahore Qalandars. More often known for his late-order power-hitting, his medium pace bowling has provided vital breakthroughs over several PSL seasons.

He isn’t express quick but uses clever changes of pace and angles to disrupt batters’ rhythm. His all-round contributions were key to Lahore’s title win in 2022, and his longevity in the league speaks volumes.

3. Chris Jordan (England)

33 PSL matches, 40 wickets, average: 24.40

England‘s Chris Jordan has carved out a reputation globally for being a dependable death-overs bowler, and he’s replicated that form in the PSL. He has represented Peshawar Zalmi, Karachi Kings and Multan Sultans, and regardless of franchise, his role has remained consistent – to bowl at the toughest times and contain the opposition.

His ability to bowl accurate yorkers under pressure and force false shots in the slog overs has made him one of the most bankable foreign pacers in PSL history.

2. Rashid Khan (Afghanistan)

28 PSL matches, 44 wickets, average: 15.47

A superstar wherever he goes, Rashid Khan’s Pakistan Super League stint has been predictably brilliant. The Afghan leg-spinner has baffled even the best batters with his speed, accuracy and deadly googly.

Turning out for Lahore Qalandars, Rashid has often bowled in all phases – powerplay, middle overs, and even at the death – with staggering success. His strike rate and average are unmatched among foreign bowlers, and his presence often forces teams to play out his four overs rather than take risks, thereby changing the dynamic of the game.

1. Imran Tahir (South Africa)

44 PSL matches, 56 wickets, average: 19.64

Born in Lahore but representing South Africa at international level, Imran Tahir tops this list as the most prolific non-Pakistani wicket-taker in PSL history. A master of his craft, Tahir’s mix of leg-breaks, googlies and clever flight has made him a constant threat. He played a key role for Multan Sultans, with many of his wickets coming during their rise as one of the top sides in the league.

Despite being in his forties, his energy and celebration style remained as youthful as ever, inspiring teammates and fans alike. His impact goes far beyond just numbers – Tahir has been one of the true entertainers of the league.

Read next: There will be a new number 1 among the top 9 wicket-takers in the Pakistan Super League this season

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Who are the 3 England stars among the top 8 run-scorers in the PSL for overseas players?

Who are the 3 England stars among the top 8 run-scorers in the PSL for overseas players?

The 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League is set to start on Friday 11 April when champions Islamabad United host Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Since the PSL was first staged in 2016, it has featured many fantastic cricketers.

As is the case with many franchise leagues around the world, when teams spend money to attract big-name overseas players, they tend to spend on batsmen rather than bowlers.

While it is hard work looking for successful non-Pakistani bowlers amongst the names on the list of PSL’s highest wicket-takers, when it comes to batting it is entirely different – there have been plenty of excellent players from outside of Pakistan who have shone in the league.

Let’s take a quick moment to look at the non-Pakistani batsmen who have scored the most runs in PSL history…

8. Luke Ronchi (New Zealand)

31 PSL matches, 1,020 runs, average: 36.42

Luke Ronchi was a revelation in the PSL during his stint with Islamabad United, bringing an aggressive, fearless brand of cricket to the top of the order.

Known for his explosive starts and ability to dismantle bowlers within the powerplay, Ronchi played a crucial role in Islamabad’s 2018 title-winning campaign.

Though he only featured across three seasons, his impact was immediate and memorable, making him one of the most effective overseas openers the league has seen.

7. Kieron Pollard (West Indies)

53 PSL matches, 1,149 runs, average: 38.30

Pollard’s PSL journey has taken him through multiple franchises including Karachi Kings, Multan Sultans, and Peshawar Zalmi. As always, his ability to clear the boundary and finish games with calm authority made him a valuable asset.

His average of 38.30 is the highest on this list, reflecting his consistency despite the finisher’s role often involving high-risk situations. Pollard’s experience and presence in the dressing room added value far beyond the numbers.

Also read: Who is the only overseas player among the top 9 batters with the most runs in Pakistan Super League?

6. James Vince (England)

45 PSL matches, 1,166 runs, average: 27.76

James Vince’s elegant stroke play has been a regular feature in the PSL, particularly in the colours of Multan Sultans. While his average is modest compared to others on this list, his contributions at the top have been pivotal in setting strong platforms.

His cover drives and timing have often lit up PSL games, and when in form, Vince is capable of dominating any bowling attack. He’s a trusted top-order option with a good blend of aggression and composure.

5. Alex Hales (England)

44 PSL matches, 1,180 runs, average: 29.50

Alex Hales has been one of the most dynamic overseas batters in the league, most notably for Islamabad United. His reputation as a high-impact opener is well established and he has regularly delivered quick starts and match-turning innings.

Hales brings a fearless attitude and the ability to clear the field with ease, which has made him a fan favourite. Despite missing some seasons due to availability issues, his contributions remain significant and consistent.

4. Jason Roy (England)

38 PSL matches, 1,260 runs, average: 36.00

England‘s Jason Roy’s attacking approach and ability to dominate from ball one make him one of the most thrilling batters in T20 cricket, and his PSL career reflects that.

Representing Quetta Gladiators and Lahore Qalandars, Roy has produced some remarkable innings, including one of the fastest centuries in the league’s history.

His average of 36 is impressive for an opener who consistently looks to attack early and take the game away from the opposition.

3. Shane Watson (Australia)

46 PSL matches, 1,361 runs, average: 32.40

A towering figure in the early years of the Pakistan Super League, Shane Watson was a key part of Quetta Gladiators’ rise, including their 2019 title-winning campaign.

Often batting at the top, Watson combined power with experience, and his ability to anchor or accelerate as needed made him one of the most dependable overseas stars.

His contributions weren’t limited to batting either – Watson also chipped in with the ball during his early seasons, making him a true all-round package.

2. Colin Munro (New Zealand)

47 PSL matches, 1,417 runs, average: 32.95

Munro has been one of Islamabad United’s most consistent performers in recent years. The left-hander brings a unique blend of brute force and finesse, which allows him to be equally effective against pace and spin.

His ability to dominate in the powerplay and maintain a high strike rate has made him a fixture at the top of the order. With several match-winning innings under his belt, Munro continues to be a key foreign player in the league.

1. Rilee Rossouw (South Africa)

84 PSL matches, 2,015 runs, average: 31.98

South Africa‘s Rossouw leads the pack as the highest run-scorer among non-Pakistani players in PSL history. A long-serving member of the Multan Sultans and now also part of Quetta Gladiators, Rossouw has been a mainstay in the PSL’s middle order.

He’s known for his explosive power and ability to hit spinners and pacers alike. His ability to shift gears mid-innings makes him particularly valuable, and his consistency across multiple seasons has elevated him to elite status.

Reaching the 2000-run mark is testament to his longevity and effectiveness in one of the world’s top T20 leagues.

Read next: There will be a new number 1 among the top 9 wicket-takers in the Pakistan Super League this season

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