The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is more than just a cricket league. It’s a platform where dreams come true, young players rise, and real stories of hard work and passion are made. In PSL 10, which ended with Lahore Qalandars defeating Quetta Gladiators, one player stood out—Mohammad Naeem. He also became the Emerging Player of the Tournament. His journey, mixed with praise and controversy, became one of the biggest talking points of the season.
Mohammad Naeem: A PDP Success Story
Mohammad Naeem made his T20 debut in PSL 10. The season itself was delayed to May 2025 due to tensions between India and Pakistan. Naeem is a product of the Lahore Qalandars’ Player Development Program (PDP), which helps young players who don’t come from traditional cricket backgrounds.
Naeem had already shown promise in the National T20 Cup, but it was in PSL 10 where he really made an impact. He played 12 matches, scored 314 runs at a strike rate of 163, hit 23 sixes overall, and smashed 6 sixes in the final—the most by any player in PSL final history. For the Lahore Qalandars, he proved that trusting young talent brings long-term success.
The Controversy: Debate Over His Category
When Lahore Qalandars lifted the PSL trophy for the third time, not everyone celebrated. Some fans, especially those supporting Peshawar Zalmi and Islamabad United, questioned whether Naeem should have played in the emerging category.
Although Naeem was registered as a PDP-protected player in PSL 9, he didn’t play that year. Still, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) allowed him to remain in the emerging category for PSL 10. This decision later sparked debates among fans and experts.
Usually, players in the emerging category must be under 23 years of age and must not have represented Pakistan’s senior national team. However, there are exceptions. Players coming through special talent programs, such as the Player Development Program (PDP), can sometimes be considered eligible even if they are older.
Saqib Shah, a cricket analyst and a die-hard Lahore Qalandars fan, recently shared his thoughts on this topic in a post on X (formerly Twitter). He regularly shares his cricket insights on the platform Relukatty, through both X and YouTube.
In his recent post, Saqib clarified that Mohammad Naeem remained eligible for the emerging category because he did not participate in PSL 9. Therefore, according to the rules, it was fair for him to retain his place in this category.
To all the PSL fans asking about M Naeem emerging category:
— Saqib Shah (@Saqibca) May 28, 2025
PDP protected player could play one season regardless of the age.
M Naeem was registered in PSL 9 as a PDP protected player in emerging category and after that Lahore/PCB let him allowed to play NatT20 (last year and…
Some accused Lahore Qalandars of using a loophole. But Saqib Shah broke down these claims with clear facts. He also pointed out that many people had earlier criticized Qalandars for keeping faith in Naeem, and now the same people were upset when he finally performed well. “Not everything in life is a conspiracy,” Shah wrote.
He also reminded fans that Lahore Qalandars didn’t always win. They had years of losses, online jokes, and criticism, but they focused on improving. That focus led to titles in 2022, 2023, and now 2025.
Lahore Qalandars: From Underdogs to Champions
PSL 10 was full of challenges. From the delayed start to a tough final, Lahore Qalandars showed strength and unity. Their 6-wicket win in the final against Quetta Gladiators proved their depth and determination.
Even Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the Qalandars. He called their win an example of “excellent sportsmanship” and congratulated all teams for showing true spirit during a difficult season.
Under leaders like Sameen Rana (COO and Team Manager), and their coaching team, the Qalandars have always believed in young talent. Mohammad Naeem is proof that their strategy works. As one user, Ali Ahmed (@tweets_by_Ali9), posted: “Credit goes to Lahore Qalandars management. Excellent work by @sameenrana bhai.”
Sameen Rana himself also shared Saqib Shah’s detailed post on X, which explained the controversy around Naeem’s eligibility and cleared the confusion. This showed the management’s confidence in their development system and belief in transparency.
Mohammad Naeem: A Win for Pakistan
Naeem’s story is not just a win for Lahore Qalandars—it’s a win for Pakistan. Saqib Shah said it best: “Mohammad Naeem has arrived for Pakistan, not just Lahore.”
With important matches and the 2026 T20 World Cup coming, Naeem could be a key player for the national team. Shah added, “Next year, who knows which team he’ll play for. But InshaAllah, he’ll play for Pakistan.”
In a country where cricket sparks strong emotions, Naeem’s journey shows what’s possible with support and belief. Whether he plays for Lahore, another PSL team, or Pakistan, his success lifts all of Pakistan cricket.
A Lesson in Sportsmanship
Saqib Shah ended his viral post with a strong message: “We’ve handled defeats, jokes, and criticism. But instead of blaming others, we worked hard and focused on getting better.”
This is a message for fans, players, and analysts. Let’s celebrate talent. Let’s lose with dignity and win with grace. As Shah said, “In the end, results are in Allah’s hands.”
PSL 10 may be over, but Mohammad Naeem’s story is just beginning. For every young boy dreaming of cricket glory, for every team that dares to trust fresh talent, and for every fan who believes in the game, Naeem’s journey is a shining example.
Lahore Qalandars won the trophy, but in Mohammad Naeem, Pakistan found a new hero. And that might be the biggest victory of all.
Also Read: Lahore Qalandars Share PSL 10 Victory with SOS Village Children
