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Saud Shakeel Appointed Quetta Gladiators' Captain In PSL 2025: Reports

Soumyajit Dutta∙ Updated: Jan 22 2025, 5:06 PM

Saud Shakeel has been named the captain of Quetta Gladiators for PSL 2025 [Source: @SalmanAsif2007/X.com]Saud Shakeel has been named the captain of Quetta Gladiators for PSL 2025 [Source: @SalmanAsif2007/X.com]

In a recent development, Quetta Gladiators, the two-time Pakistan Super League (PSL) champions, have named Saud Shakeel as their new captain ahead of the 2025 season. The left-handed batter will take over the reins from Rilee Rossouw, who led the Gladiators during the 2024 edition. 

Shakeel’s appointment comes as part of the franchise’s renewed strategy for the upcoming season. Alongside captaining the side, Saud is set to open the batting, a responsibility which he kept promisingly well last year boasting a strike rate of 141.67.

Gladiators Revamp Leadership , Eyes Third PSL Trophy Win

The Quetta Gladiators’ management has placed its trust in the partnership between Shakeel and head coach Moin Khan to guide the team to success. This change is accompanied by the termination of Shane Watson’s contract a year early. Watson, who was initially set to continue with the franchise, was unable to participate in PSL Season 10 due to personal reasons.

Sources have also confirmed that former Gladiators captain Sarfaraz Ahmed is likely to take on the role of director of cricket. Sarfaraz, currently mentoring in the Champions Cup, is well-positioned to contribute to the franchise's future.

Saud Shakeel’s PSL Journey

Saud Shakeel’s impressive performances in the PSL have established him as a dependable batter. In 10 matches of his debut season, he has scored 323 runs at an average of 35.88 and a strike rate of 141.66, including two half-centuries, with a highest score of 88*. His overall T20 career includes 990 runs in 49 matches at a strike rate of 131.47, showcasing his ability to adapt and perform under pressure.

Shakeel has also been doing well with the bat as seen recently in the West Indies tour where he notched up a massive 84. With shining form, Shakeel will be confident to lead the Gladiators into PSL 2025 which is set to start from April.