By SRTeam The 2017 Pakistan Super League (PSL) marked a pivotal chapter in Pakistan’s cricketing narrative, not only for the exhilarating on-field performances but also for its role in reintroducing international cricket to Pakistani soil. Spanning from February 9 to March 5, 2017, the tournament featured five franchises: Islamabad United, Karachi Kings, Lahore Qalandars, Peshawar Zalmi, and Quetta Gladiators. While the group and playoff stages were hosted in the United Arab Emirates, the grand finale took place at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, symbolizing a significant stride toward reviving cricket in Pakistan.
PSL Season 2 2017 Champion: Peshawar Zalmi
Peshawar Zalmi clinched their maiden PSL title in the 2017 season. Under the leadership of Darren Sammy, they faced Quetta Gladiators in the final on March 5, 2017. Batting first, Peshawar Zalmi posted a total of 148 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allotted 20 overs. In response, Quetta Gladiators were bowled out for 90 runs in 16.3 overs, resulting in a comprehensive 58-run victory for Peshawar. Darren Sammy’s impactful innings and astute captaincy earned him the Man of the Match accolade.
Runner-Up: Quetta Gladiators
Quetta Gladiators, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed, showcased consistent performances throughout the tournament, securing their place in the final for the second consecutive year. Despite their efforts, they fell short in the final hurdle against Peshawar Zalmi. Their journey to the final underscored their resilience and competitive spirit, solidifying their reputation as formidable contenders in the PSL.
Prize Money
The PSL 2017 offered substantial financial rewards to its top performers. Peshawar Zalmi, as the champions, received a prize of US$500,000, while the runner-up, Quetta Gladiators, earned US$200,000. These prizes underscored the league’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding excellence on the field.
Participating Teams
The 2017 PSL season featured five franchises, each representing a major city in Pakistan. Below is an overview of each team, including their city, owner, home ground, and captain:
| Team | City | Owner | Home Ground | Captain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Islamabad United | Islamabad | Leonine Global Sports | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium | Misbah-ul-Haq |
| Karachi Kings | Karachi | ARY Group | National Stadium | Kumar Sangakkara |
| Lahore Qalandars | Lahore | Qatar Lubricants Company | Gaddafi Stadium | Brendon McCullum |
| Peshawar Zalmi | Peshawar | Haier Pakistan | Arbab Niaz Stadium | Darren Sammy |
| Quetta Gladiators | Quetta | Omar Associates | Bugti Stadium | Sarfaraz Ahmed |
Notable Performances and Statistics
The tournament also highlighted individual brilliance. Kamran Akmal of Peshawar Zalmi was named the Player of the Tournament for his exceptional performance, amassing 353 runs. Sohail Khan of Karachi Kings topped the wicket-taking charts with 16 wickets.
Impact and Legacy
The successful execution of PSL’s second season set the foundation for subsequent editions, playing a pivotal role in revitalizing cricket in Pakistan. It provided a platform for local players to compete alongside international stars, enhancing their skills and exposure. Moreover, the league’s success contributed to restoring international cricket’s confidence in Pakistan as a safe and vibrant host for major sporting events.
In conclusion, the 2017 PSL season was more than just a cricket tournament; it was a celebration of the sport’s spirit, bringing together diverse talents and setting the stage for a thriving cricketing future in Pakistan.