No franchise bound to pick players from any particular region: Moin Khan

KARACHI: Pakistan’s former captain and head coach of PSL team Quetta Gladiators has hit back at critics by saying that no franchise is bound to pick a player from any particular city or region.

Moin told media in Karachi that it is the PCB’s responsibility to pick, develop and highlight players from Balochistan and the privately owned franchise should not be made a target of criticism.

“People are unnecessarily making it a political issue, no franchise is legally bound to include players from the region it is affiliated with. Although we believe that it is our moral duty to work for Quetta,” he said while responding to questions about criticism for not picking any player from Balochistan in the recently held PSL draft.

“Franchises are not bound to pick players from any particular region, they’re free to pick players according to their requirement and on merit. PCB has not made it mandatory for franchises,” he said.

Moin also highlighted the fact that there is no player in the ongoing National T20 from Balochistan and there were hardly any players from Balochistan included in drafts.

The former captain also defended the inclusion of his son Azam Khan in the Quetta Gladiators squad.

“He’s a talented player and that’s why he’s been picked. Hope he’ll perform to answer his critics. He will have to perform. He’s talented and will take time to learn as well,” he said.

“We must support all new kids, they’re all Pakistanis and future of Pakistan,” Moin added.

The former captain hoped that his team will not only make another PSL final but will win the title this year.

He also welcomed the news of PSL3 final in Karachi and termed it a good opportunity for cricket fans in Karachi.

“I hope Karachites will enjoy the final and with their hospitality will tell PCB that Karachi needs more cricket at home,” the former captain concluded.