Khiladi ki Khoj program injects new talent into national-level cricket: Salman Iqbal

KARACHI: CEO ARY Digital Network and Karachi Kings owner Mr. Salman Iqbal on Sunday said the aspirant cricketers who were hunted down during the trials for ‘Khiladi ki Khoj’ (talent hunt programme), organized under the aegis of Karachi Kings franchise, have been playing the international cricket.

Addressing an event organized in the honour of Karachi Kings here, the CEO ARY Digital Network said around five to six players who were exposed to international cricket through talent hunt programme are now playing for Pakistan Under-19 team.

“These cricketers are now part of 16-player team to represent the national team in Under-19 World Cup,” the Karachi Kings owner said.

He said these are small initiatives that are expanding the cricket at national level. “The PSL has gained immense popularity internationally as it’s the second most watched tournament,” he said.

Mr. Iqbal was of view that India announced a triangular cricket series merely 15 days ahead of PSL third edition. “The announcement of tri-nation series is evident that the PSL has become a popular game,” he added.

On the occasion, he thanked the law enforcement agencies (LEAs) officials for ensuring foolproof security measures.

Later in the day, Karachi Kings departed for United Arab Emirates (UAE) to take on Quetta Gladiators on Friday (February 23) in the third edition of Pakistan Super League (PSL).