West Indian legend Sir Viv Richards has acknowledged the Indian Premier League (IPL) as the gold standard in franchise cricket, while adding that other global leagues, including the Pakistan Super League (PSL), are working towards bridging the gap.
There’s no doubt the IPL is the biggest. I’ve spent most of my time in the PSL, but I recognise that the IPL is number one right now. There are so many leagues, and many Pakistani players take part in them too. But the IPL has set a benchmark — featuring top international stars alongside exciting local talent to produce consistently high-quality cricket.
Known for his explosive batting long before the T20 era existed, Richards has been a long-time mentor and inspirational figure for the Quetta Gladiators in the PSL, a role he cherishes deeply.
“Ten years ago, I met the owner, his family, and the support staff — and I felt at home immediately,” he said. “A decade later, it’s still as exciting and comfortable as it was on day one. The PSL has been a great league for me. We've shared both good and tough times together.”
Richards, who played 121 Tests and 187 ODIs, was a key figure in West Indies' World Cup-winning sides in 1975 and 1979. With a strike rate of 90.20 in ODIs — remarkable for his era — he revolutionised limited-overs batting with his fearless style.
“I think I would’ve been too powerful with today’s bats! This format would’ve suited my game perfectly. I always enjoyed dominating the bowling.”
However, he admitted the modern game heavily favours batters. “White-ball formats — ODIs and T20s — are tilted in favour of batters. In ODIs, with two new balls, it’s tough on bowlers. But fans come to watch big shots and sixes.”
Quetta’s Comeback on Track
Quetta Gladiators, who won the PSL in 2019, had underwhelming seasons in recent years—reaching the playoffs only once in the past four editions. But Richards believes the tide is turning.
The franchise started PSL 2024 with a big win over Peshawar Zalmi before suffering heavy defeats to Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings. However, since arriving in their new 'home' of Lahore, Quetta have bounced back in style — with a five-run win over Karachi, a dominant 64-run victory against Peshawar, and a record-setting ten-wicket thrashing of Multan Sultans, achieved with a massive 79 balls to spare.
“The team is building momentum with every game,” Richards said. “We always aim to compete hard and be at the top. The most important thing is to stay focused on what we’re capable of.”
Our goal is to win the title. In recent years, we lost our competitive edge. We want to get that back. If we continue to compete well, there’s every reason to hope we can reach the final and lift the trophy again.
