Sarfaraz Ahmed Quetta Gladiators | New Team Director Role in HBL PSL X

Sarfaraz Ahmed Embraces New Role with Quetta Gladiators in HBL PSL X

Sarfaraz Ahmed, one of Pakistan's most celebrated cricketers, embarks on a fresh chapter in his journey with Quetta Gladiators, this time off the field. As the newly appointed Team Director, Sarfaraz is tasked with guiding the franchise through the challenges of HBL PSL X. After an illustrious playing career that saw him lead Quetta to the 2019 PSL title and Pakistan to multiple ICC trophies, Sarfaraz’s new assignment signals his commitment to shaping the future of the team he has been synonymous with since the league’s inception.

Sarfaraz Ahmed's Evolution with Quetta Gladiators

Having captained Quetta Gladiators for eight years and a record 80 matches, Sarfaraz's transition to a management role is a natural progression. The Sarfaraz Ahmed Quetta Gladiators association has been one of the longest and most fruitful in PSL history. Speaking to PCB Digital from the LCCA Ground, where the Gladiators are training ahead of their Lahore leg, Sarfaraz shared his thoughts on this significant transition.

"It’s an exciting role for me," he stated. "Switching from being on the field to mentoring and strategizing from the sidelines is challenging, but growth demands adaptation."

Sarfaraz's commitment to Quetta Gladiators runs deep. Having witnessed the league's growth firsthand since 2016, he remains passionate about contributing to its future success, both for the franchise and the broader HBL PSL X brand.

Quetta Gladiators' Journey in HBL PSL X

Quetta Gladiators have had a mixed start to their campaign, winning just one out of three matches so far. Arriving in Lahore after playing in Rawalpindi and Karachi, the team now faces a crucial stretch with five home matches lined up. For Sarfaraz, this presents a perfect opportunity to instill resilience and tactical clarity among the squad.

Reflecting on Quetta’s memorable 2019 title run, Sarfaraz said, "Our team combination was perfect that year. We had waited, reached finals, and then finally delivered. We’re determined to find that same rhythm again in HBL PSL X."

With fierce competition this season, Sarfaraz believes smart squad management and mental toughness will be key to rekindling the Gladiators' past glory.

Focus on New Talent and Team Building

One of Sarfaraz Ahmed's prime objectives in his new role is nurturing young talent. Players like Hasan Nawaz and Khawaja Nafay are already making impressions. Discussing their prospects, Sarfaraz noted, "Hasan Nawaz is a promising player with raw potential, while Khawaja Nafay’s domestic performances show he is on the right track."

These players reflect the franchise's philosophy an ethos that Sarfaraz himself embodies of giving young cricketers a platform to evolve. With Sarfaraz Ahmed Quetta Gladiators continuing to focus on emerging talents, the future looks promising.

Overseas Recruits and Building a Winning Core

The 2025 player draft saw Quetta Gladiators make some shrewd acquisitions. Sarfaraz admitted that past seasons have been disappointing, but he remains confident in the current squad’s ability to adapt and thrive. "We have picked some great overseas players well-suited for the T20 format," he said. "This year, our combinations are better and more balanced."

This strategic approach was evident during their opening win but will now be rigorously tested during the Lahore leg of HBL PSL X.

Leadership Transition: Backing Saud Shakeel

Another aspect Sarfaraz is heavily involved in is supporting new captain Saud Shakeel. Having successfully captained Pakistan’s U19 side and Test team in recent times, Saud brings a calm, methodical leadership style.

"Saud has the complete backing of the team," Sarfaraz emphasized. "Wins and losses are part of the journey. What matters is that Saud has shown the ability to lead, and we have full faith in him moving forward."

This endorsement from a senior figure like Sarfaraz provides much-needed stability in a high-pressure league like HBL PSL X.

The Road Ahead for Quetta Gladiators

With Lahore matches coming up, Quetta Gladiators have an opportunity to reboot their season. Sarfaraz’s presence as Team Director will be crucial both for tactical input and for maintaining team morale. His experience in high-stakes matches, ability to spot talent, and deep understanding of T20 nuances position him perfectly to influence Quetta’s fortunes.

As the Sarfaraz Ahmed Quetta Gladiators journey enters this new phase, fans will be eager to see if his leadership from the dugout can recreate the magic he once delivered on the field. Regardless of the outcome, Sarfaraz’s ongoing contribution ensures that Quetta’s legacy continues to evolve with purpose and pride.