Former Pakistan paceman Umar Gul has been appointed Head Coach of Goal Gladiators before the second edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL), which is scheduled to take place from December 3 to 23 at two venues; the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium and the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium in Hambantota.
Moin Khan was in command of the Gladiators last season, but for personal reasons, he will not be able to compete in the next tournament. Therefore, the franchise is roped to Gul, who has extensive experience with 20 over formats. Moreover, all-rounder Shahid Afridi, who captained the team in the first edition, will not be available for the second edition.
With Moin Khan not available, Gul was pretty sure to fill his shoes with the LPL franchise. In his career of over 13 years, the speedster has represented Pakistan with 47 tests, 130 ODIs, and 60 T20Is; winning 163, 179, and 85 wickets, respectively. The former pacemaker, currently the sixth-tallest wicket-taker in the T20 International, is the only Pakistani bowler to have two five wickets in the T20I.
Nonetheless, Gladiators have a formidable side this time, and they will retreat themselves to go one step further. The sides are studded with T20 powerhouses such as Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Hafeez, Summit Patel, Tabrais Shamushi, and Sarfaraz Ahamed. Bhanuka Rajapaksa, who emerged as the leading run-scorer for Gladiators, and pacie Dhananjaya Lakshan have also retained their places. Isuru Udana also is a new addition to the team from Colombo Kings at the last edition.
Last time, Galle Gladiators qualified for the inaugural LPL final and emerged runners-up; while Jaffna Stallions, led by Thisara Perera, won the championship. Therefore, it is interesting to see if this new look Galle side can live up to expectations once again with good confidence.
Add new comment