Disclaimer:
This article is a rewritten transcription of an exclusive video interview conducted by CricWick with Lahore Qalandars’ Owner and Team Director, Sameen Rana, originally aired on May 31, 2025.
The original interview is the property of CricWick. This version has been transcribed and rewritten to enhance readability, especially for fans who prefer an engaging written experience.
Watch the full original interview here: Exclusive: Sameen Rana | Naeem’s Age | Player’s Parents Approached to Leave LQ | Qalandars Journey
In a power-packed interview with CricWick on May 31, 2025. Lahore Qalandars’ Owner and Team Director, Sameen Rana, opened up like never before. From early failures to winning hearts with three PSL titles, Rana shared his raw thoughts on player loyalty, leadership, talent development, and where the league needs to go next.
Let’s dive into the highlights from this honest and inspiring conversation.
From Wooden Spoon to Three-Time PSL Champions: “We Trusted the Process”
Reflecting on Lahore Qalandars’ incredible turnaround, Sameen Rana didn’t shy away from crediting the franchise’s unwavering belief in its system.
“The first six years weren’t easy,” Rana said. “But we weren’t looking for shortcuts. We believed in our process—one that needed time to evolve. Even when we lost 8 out of 10 games last year, we stuck to it. That’s what made this possible.”
Building a Culture, Not Just a Team
What sets Qalandars apart? Rana explained it’s more than cricket—it’s about an identity.
“Before the 2025 final, I showed our new foreign players a video from the previous season—when we’d lost almost everything. But the joy, energy, and passion were the same. That’s the Qalandars way. We don’t perform for the moment; we perform with heart, every time.”
Trophy Tour and Talent Hunts in 25 Cities: “This Time, It’s Bigger”
Rana revealed that Qalandars aren’t just celebrating the win—they’re taking it across Pakistan.
“We plan to visit 25 cities, not just to show off the trophy, but to hold talent hunts, inspire youth, and find the next stars. What was once mocked as a gimmick is now our pride. Players like Shaheen, Haris, Zaman, and Naeem prove that.”
2025 PSL Season: “It Felt Like Coming Back from the Dead”
Unlike their dominant group stage finishes in 2022 and 2023, Qalandars barely made it through the playoffs this year.
“I was in Dubai during the break, wondering—‘How did this happen?’ We’d built our strongest squad in 10 years, yet we were on the brink. That Karachi match stung. But that break became our turning point.”
No Head Coach, No Problem: Man-Management Is the Key
When asked about the absence of a head coach this season, Rana got candid.
“Franchise cricket doesn’t need a ‘head coach’ like national teams do. In PSL, the real job is year-round man-management. I’ve been doing that for 10 years. I know my boys, and they know me. That’s why, even without big names or formal titles, we succeeded.”
Naeem Khan Controversy: “People Speak Without Knowing the Rules”
Addressing the debate around Naeem Khan’s eligibility in the emerging player category, Rana set the record straight.
“There’s a PCB-approved Talent Hunt rule that allows players like Naeem to qualify. He was protected in 2023 before playing any first-class cricket. PCB confirmed this in writing, and all franchises were informed. But nobody raised a word until after we won.”
Backing Naeem Through Failure: “He’s Built for the Long Run”
Despite early failures, Rana and his team backed Naeem Khan throughout the season.
“We told him, just score 10. Then eight. Then five. But we never doubted his ability. I’ve known him for five years—he’s got the hunger. Batting takes time. Sachin failed 90% of the time too. We trusted the process, and Naeem delivered when it mattered.”
Sikandar Raza’s Dedication: “He’s the Soul of This Team”
Raza’s story this season felt straight out of a movie—playing a Test match and flying economy to join the final.
“When his break happened, he was the first to say, ‘I’m coming to Pakistan.’ With most foreign players unavailable, he stepped up without talking money or categories. That’s what makes Sikandar the real ‘Sikandar of Qalandars.’”
Loyalty Over Offers: “We Don’t Just Retain Players—We Build Bonds”
From Shaheen to Rashid Khan to Fakhar, Qalandars’ core has stayed intact despite massive offers.
“Other teams threw blank cheques, offered captaincy—but our players stayed. Because we walk the talk. ‘Dil Se’ isn’t just a slogan—it’s our identity. Our players feel that year-round.”
Captain Shaheen: “Three Trophies Say It All”
Shaheen Afridi’s leadership has often been questioned—but Rana believes this third title puts the debate to rest.
“They said Rashid carried him. This time, there was no Rashid, no coach, no David Wiese—yet we won. Shaheen has grown into a real leader. David told me himself—‘Shaheen listens to everyone, but follows his gut.’ And that gut just won us a third title.”
Future of PSL: “Time for Structure, Not Gimmicks”
Rana backed Ali Tareen’s call for innovation, but stressed that deeper structural reforms are the real need.
“We need a separate PSL secretariat, a legal structure, and a serious financial model. Camera angles won’t grow the league—vision and commitment will. The PCB is heading in the right direction, but we need long-term action.”
Final Thoughts: “From Struggles to Hearts—This Is Just the Beginning”
Ending the interview with hope and gratitude, Sameen Rana summed up the Qalandars’ journey:
“It took us six years to get it right, and now we have three titles in our hands. But more than that—we have the hearts of millions. With new talent coming in and PSL evolving, the best is yet to come. Thank you to all our fans—keep supporting us, always Dil Se.”
Also Read: Shaheen Shah Afridi’s PSL Captaincy: A Tale of Bold Risks and Three Titles in Four Years
