Quetta Gladiators’ Sarfaraz Ahmed steps down as captain ahead of PSL 9

LAHORE: Quetta Gladiators captain Sarfaraz Ahmed announced his sudden resignation from his leadership role on Tuesday.

Despite stepping down as captain, Sarfaraz will remain part of Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 9 as a wicketkeeper batsman.

Reports indicate that Sarfaraz’s decision came after a suggestion from former Australian cricketer Shane Watson.

Meanwhile, Rilee Rossouw has been appointed as the new captain of Quetta Gladiators, with Saud Shakeel serving as vice-captain.

Quetta Gladiators will play their first match of the franchise on February 18 against Peshawar Zalmi at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.

Security arrangements for PSL 9 finalised

Meanwhile, security arrangements for the nineth iteration of the PSL were finalised on Tuesday.

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Operations Lahore Ali Nasir Rizvi revealed that a total of 17,176 police personnel will be deployed across three districts during the event.

Lahore will see 6,936 personnel, Multan 5,700, and Rawalpindi 4,538. Additionally, three companies of the Pakistan army will contribute to ensure security.

Measures such as jammer installations and aerial surveillance via helicopters will enhance security. The participating teams will be treated as state guests, with stringent security protocols governing their movement and matches.

Surveillance cameras will provide 24-hour monitoring, complemented by additional cameras along team routes and within stadiums.

Additionally, 20 “Dolphin Force” teams will patrol the routes, ensuring the safety of players, officials, and spectators.