In an exclusive PakPassion interview with Saj, Sameen Rana opens up on Lahore Qalandars' iconic PSL triumph. As Team Director and COO, he shares behind-the-scenes stories of their road to glory. Rana sheds light on key decisions, challenges, and pivotal moments from the championship season. He also addresses pressing controversies in Pakistan cricket with honesty and insight.

By Saj Sadiq (June 9th, 2025)

Summary of topics discussed:


Lahore Qalandars' Success in PSL 10:

Toughest Win Yet: Rana described the PSL 10 victory as "very special" and the toughest of their three titles. The tournament was a "roller coaster" with disruptions, crucial game losses, do-or-die matches, and coaching staff unavailability.

Team Character and Planning: He credits the team, captain, and supporting staff for showing great character and overcoming hurdles. The success is also attributed to better planning, particularly in squad selection, which was designed for various scenarios.

Core Group Stability: The long-standing core group of players (David Wiese, Shaheen, Haris, Fakhar, Abdullah, Zaman, Sikandar) has been crucial, as their established bond helps when "chips are down."


Overseas Player Recruitment

Lessons Learned: Lahore Qalandars made mistakes in the previous year's draft, taking a "casual" approach as defending champions.

Focused Approach: For PSL 10, Rana was personally present for the draft, putting significant thought into past successes and failures. The focus was on building a balanced team rather than making emotional picks. He cited the decision to pick Daniel Mitchell over David Warner, prioritizing team balance.


"Qalandar ka Sikandar" – Sikandar Raza

Heart of the Franchise: Sikandar Raza is called "Qalandar" in their team song and is considered the "heart of the franchise" due to his immense energy, passion, and commitment.

Valuing Personality Over Performance: Rana emphasized that Lahore Qalandars values personality more than just on-field performance, as cricket performances can fluctuate. He regards Raza as an "absolute gem" and a "dream person to have in any team."

Long-Term Commitment: Rana committed to keeping Raza with the team after recognizing his value early on, seeing him as a pillar of the franchise.


Shaheen Afridi's Captaincy and Support

Personal Bond: Rana has a deep, family-like bond with Shaheen Afridi, having known him since he was 16-17 years old and providing extra care as a young player.

Unfair Treatment from PCB/Media: Rana expressed sadness and strong disagreement with how the Pakistan Cricket Board and social media handled Shaheen's captaincy, calling it "unfortunate" and not the "best way to manage an athlete." He stressed that superstar athletes like Shaheen need to be handled with care.

Backing and Belief: Despite negativity and propaganda, Lahore Qalandars consistently backed Shaheen, recognizing him as a "generational talent." Rana believes that supporting players like Shaheen allows them to "do wonder." Shaheen's performance in PSL 10 (best bowler, most successful captain) vindicated their trust.


Lahore Qalandars' Coaching Philosophy

"Manager," Not "Head Coach": Rana stated he doesn't consider himself a head coach and prefers the term "manager." He believes classical coaching is "nearly impossible" in franchise cricket due to limited time for camps.

Relationship-Based Management: His philosophy is rooted in relationship building and people management. Understanding players personally facilitates communication and trust.

No Technical Teaching: At the franchise level, he sees coaching as more about management than teaching technical skills, though technical coaches (bowling, batting, fielding) are important for sharpening existing skills.


Unearthing Mohammad Naeem & Controversy around his selection

Faith in Player Development: Rana highlighted Naeem's journey through Lahore Qalandars' player development program since 2017. He strongly defended Naeem against critics and rumors about his emerging player status.

Criticism of Negativity: He questioned why people focused on rules and negativity rather than celebrating a young Pakistani talent's performance. He stated that the PCB, not the franchise, determines emerging player status.

Backing Through Struggle: Despite initial struggles and media targeting, Lahore Qalandars backed Naeem completely, understanding his role as an aggressor and alleviating pressure by guaranteeing his spot. They even provided him a break to reflect. This unwavering trust, built over five years of development, was key to his success.


Reflections on PSL 10 as a Tournament

Attendance Issues: Rana acknowledged attendance issues, particularly in Karachi, attributing them to logistical reasons and negative media campaigns targeting Pakistan cricket and the PSL.

Combating Negativity: Lahore Qalandars actively countered this negativity, for example, by organizing a show that demonstrated public love for cricket. He stressed the importance of positive messaging to promote the sport.


How to Improve the PSL

Dedicated PSL Entity: The foremost request is for a separate legal entity and dedicated team to manage the PSL year-round, rather than relying on shared PCB resources. This would allow for better planning, marketing, and global reach.

Financial Sustainability: Rana emphasized the critical need for financial health and stability of the franchises. Adding new teams should only be considered if it provides clear financial benefits, as instability could lead to teams leaving or engaging in "wrong practices."


What’s Next for Lahore Qalandars?

University of Lahore High Performance Center: Launching a 7-week summer camp for youngsters.

Nationwide Player Development Program: Planning to visit 25 cities in Pakistan for talent hunts under the Prime Minister Youth Program initiative, aiming to discover new talents like Naeem, Shaheen, Haris, and Fakhar.

Trophy Tours: Extending trophy tours not only to different Pakistani cities but also internationally, with plans for the UK and US.

Commitment to Youth Development: Rana reiterated the franchise's dedication to continuing their role in developing Pakistan's youth.

Watch the full interview at:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikX0tgjEBgw