Lahore Qalandars’ star all-rounder Sikandar Raza has responded to Islamabad United’s Imad Wasim, dismissing claims that financial incentives influenced his dramatic return during the Pakistan Super League (PSL X) final. Raza, who is currently representing the defending champions in the ongoing PSL 11, addressed the issue after Wasim linked his last-minute appearance to the demands and financial nature of franchise cricket. The controversy dates back to last year, when Raza rejoined the Qalandars just minutes before the toss in the PSL X final at Gaddafi Stadium, despite initially taking partial leave to represent Zimbabwe in a one-off Test match against England in Nottingham. The match concluded late on Saturday night, casting doubt over his participation in the final. However, Raza arrived on time and took the field against Quetta Gladiators. In a recent interview, Wasim had commented on the pressures of franchise cricket, stating, “Like Shoaib Akhtar said, money can do things for you.” He added, “If you’re getting paid, you’ll go. I travel a lot too. Sometimes one match ends, and the next day you’re playing another. I have traveled 24 hours straight and gone directly into a match. So yes, money can make different things happen.” Raza has now firmly rejected the suggestion that money was his motivation, stating, “Imad Wasim’s comments about money being the reason behind my return to play the PSL final are unfounded. My priorities lie in respect, honor, and loyalty. In fact, money was deducted from my contract for the matches I missed, so his opinion doesn’t bother me as it’s not based on facts.” Raza’s performance in the final proved decisive, as the Qalandars, led by Shaheen Afridi, secured their third PSL title with a six-wicket victory over Quetta Gladiators. Chasing a target of 202, Lahore got off to a strong start, with Mohammad Naeem scoring 47 off 27 balls before being dismissed by Faheem Ashraf. Abdullah Shafique added 41 runs off 28 deliveries before falling to Usman Tariq. As the required run rate increased, both Thisara Perera and Bhanuka Rajapaksa struggled to maintain momentum. Raza then shifted the game by hitting consecutive boundaries off Mohammad Amir, while Perera also contributed significantly, scoring a quick half-century off 28 balls. With 13 runs needed in the final over, Raza remained composed, hitting a four and a six to seal the victory with one ball remaining. His performance played a key role in securing another championship for Lahore and highlighted his contribution despite the controversy surrounding his late arrival.
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