New Zealand cricket veteran Tim Southee has expressed a strong interest in playing in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), describing it as an “amazing tournament.”
Although Southee has toured Pakistan with the New Zealand national team, he has yet to participate in the PSL.
Throughout his career, Southee has showcased his bowling prowess in numerous T20 leagues around the world. In the Indian Premier League (IPL), he has played for several prominent teams, including Chennai Super Kings, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, and Kolkata Knight Riders. Additionally, he has participated in the Global T20 Canada, representing teams such as the Brampton Wolves and Vancouver Knights.
Currently, Southee is playing for Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred, a professional franchise 100-ball cricket tournament in England. Despite his involvement in various leagues, the New Zealand Test captain has now publicly stated his desire to join the PSL.
In an interview with leading Pakistan’s news channel, he praised the PSL for its competitiveness and allure, stating that he would be thrilled to be a part of it.
“The Pakistan Super League is an amazing tournament that I follow, and I would be thrilled to be a part of it in the future,” Southee stated. He fondly recalled his previous tour to Pakistan with the New Zealand team, highlighting the hospitality and cultural experiences he enjoyed, particularly in Karachi.
Southee also discussed his experience with The Hundred, comparing it to traditional T20 cricket. He noted that, much like T20 formats, The Hundred is not particularly friendly to bowlers, highlighting the challenges faced by pacers in these fast-paced games. “I am happy to represent Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred tournament. Like T20, the Hundred format is also not very bowler-friendly,” Southee remarked.
As the all-time leading wicket-taker in T20 internationals with 164 wickets, Southee’s potential inclusion in the PSL would be a significant addition to the league. His achievements in the shortest format of the game set him apart as a leading figure in international cricket. Fans and cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the possibility of seeing Southee in the PSL in the near future.