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Legendary Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has voiced a heartfelt demand to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), urging them to introduce a new Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise named “Pindi Express”, a nod to his iconic nickname. The proposed team would represent his hometown Rawalpindi, a city long regarded as a breeding ground for some of Pakistan’s finest cricketing talents.
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Rawalpindi Deserves a Spot: Shoaib Akhtar
Speaking passionately in a recent interview, Akhtar highlighted the strong cricketing culture in Rawalpindi, emphasizing the region’s contributions to Pakistan cricket, especially in the fast bowling department.
“The city breathes cricket. With the kind of talent Rawalpindi has produced over the years, it’s only fitting that it gets its own PSL team,” said the former speedster.
Akhtar, who still holds the record for the fastest delivery in international cricket — a blistering 161.3 km/h — believes that naming the franchise “Pindi Express” would not only honor his legacy but also energize local support and celebrate Rawalpindi’s identity.
“By the way, if I’ve said that it has to be Pindi Express, then you must vouch for this hashtag for me, because man, this team should be there. Pindi is the city of princes, a city full of extraordinary talent,” he added with a grin.
A Legacy of Fast Bowling Excellence
Rawalpindi has been a hotbed for pacers, producing the likes of Mohammad Wasim, Haris Rauf, and of course, Shoaib Akhtar himself. According to Akhtar, the city’s track record in grooming world-class fast bowlers makes it a natural choice for PSL expansion.
He emphasized that a franchise based in Rawalpindi could further unlock regional talent, motivating the next generation of cricketers from Northern Pakistan.
Pindi Express: More Than Just a Name
The name “Pindi Express” isn’t just a reference to Akhtar’s fearsome bowling days. It’s also a symbol of speed, aggression, and raw passion—traits that perfectly align with the essence of T20 cricket. The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has already hosted several thrilling PSL fixtures, often known for nail-biting finishes and roaring crowds.
Fans from the region have been eagerly hoping for their own team, and Akhtar’s suggestion is likely to ignite even more excitement among cricket lovers.
PSL Expansion in the Works
Akhtar’s comments come at a time when the Pakistan Super League is actively considering expansion. Speaking to local media recently, PSL’s Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer hinted at the possibility of two new teams joining the league as early as next season.
“By the end of this year, we might get two more teams,” Naseer stated.
He added that after successfully reviving cricket in Pakistan post-isolation, the next phase is to broaden the league’s geographic footprint beyond the traditional strongholds of Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Multan.
A Perfect Time for ‘Pindi Express’ to Join the Party
With the PSL entering its next phase of growth, the timing of Akhtar’s suggestion couldn’t be better. A team representing Rawalpindi would not only balance the league geographically but also create a new fan base with fierce loyalty.
Shoaib Akhtar’s legendary status and massive fan following could also offer a marketing boost to the potential franchise, while the city’s rich cricketing heritage provides a strong foundation for success on the field.
