LAHORE: Peshawar Zalmi’s foreign players are already loving the cricket fever that has gripped the entire Pakistani nation ahead of the grand finale tonight.
In an exclusive interview with Geo.TV, the team’s owner Javed Afridi, West Indian all-rounder Marlon Samuels and English fast bowler Chris Jordan shared their excitement over the return of cricket to Pakistan.
‘Today is even more important for Pakistan than World Cup’
Zalmi owner Javed Afridi says tonight’s finale is even more important for the nation than the Cricket World Cup.
“Cricket is coming home tonight. It’s a huge day for Pakistan. It’s even more exciting than the World Cup. Everyone’s supporting PSL, it’s such a great feeling,” Javed Afridi remarked.
“Congrats everyone, we have overcome all challenges to hold this final and it’s a big achievement for us that our foreign players are here in Lahore to play the final!” he added.
‘So happy to see joy on people’s faces’
Marlon Samuels believes his native West Indies and Pakistan are similar when it comes to cricket spirit.
“This is a big deal for a cricket-loving nation. We can see how important it is for people here that cricket has returned to Pakistan today, it’s awesome to see the joy on the people’s faces. That’s why we are here,” Samuels said.
When asked who is going to win tonight, Samuels said the ultimate winner will be Pakistan cricket.
“Pakistan cricket is gonna win. Nevertheless, we will take the trophy,” he added with a wink and a deadpan expression.
‘Feeling very welcomed’
Chris Jordan, already overwhelmed with the great welcome he and his team have received in Lahore, said it is very special for Peshawar to be in the final.
“Hopefully we will win. It’s a very special occasion for the team to be in the finale. It will be a tough game but we have gelled in very well as a side and we have great momentum,” he enthused.