Reports: Michael Clarke approached to coach a PSL franchise

Former Australian World Cup winning captain Michael Clarke is widely expected to coach Pakistan Super League’s franchise Multan Sultan in the third edition of the T20 extravaganza. According to media reports, the 2015 World Cup winning captain has been contacted to apply for the head coach role. But Clarke has given no official response as yet.

Earlier today, news also emerged about Mohammed Hafeez, who represented Peshawar Zalmi in the first two editions, is a likely candidate to captain the side, and Mahela Jayawardene for the vice-captain. Until the second edition, the PSL was only a 5-team tournament, but with the inclusion of Multan Sultan in the third edition, it will now be a six teams tournament. The reserve price for the new franchise is $5.2 million, which makes it the costliest PSL franchise, ahead of Karachi Kings, whose reserve price was $2.6 million.

One player from each of the five teams will be selected for the Multan Sultans, in addition to a few newcomers. The other five teams are Lahore Qalandars, Islamabad United, Karachi Kings, Quetta Gladiators and Peshawar Zalmi. The inaugural champions of the tournament in 2016 were the Islamabad United, followed by Peshawar Zalmi in 2017.

Clarke’s expertise invaluable for PSL 

The final of the second edition of the tournament was hosted by Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium amidst high security but the event witnessed no casualties. Although some of the overseas players didn’t travel to Pakistan for the finals owing to security concerns, those who did return home safe and with praises for the high security provided to them.

The inclusion of Michael Clarke can be a great boost for youngsters in Pakistan who will be signed for the new team. The expertise Clarke brings with him will be invaluable to the PSL. With Pakistan making great strides in international cricket, the third edition can expect more viewers on its T20 blitz.