DUBAI: Quetta Gladiators head coach Moin Khan said on Wednesday that Mohammad Nabi, who is leaving early for the Asia Cup T20, will be replaced by New Zealand all-rounder Nathan McCullum in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) being played in the UAE.

Nabi played in all the eight matches so far with skipper Sarfraz Ahmed often bringing him on in crucial stages. He finished the event for himself on a high after playing a 30-run cameo, which included two sixes and three boundaries, to help Gladiators beat Lahore Qalandars by two wickets in what was a record run-chase.

“Nabi became a very important part of Quetta Gladiators as he bowled well in tough situations throughout so we’ll miss him badly,” Moin said.

“It was unfortunate that he was not getting a proper opportunity with the bat but he showed his worth with the bat last night by winning us an unbelievable match against Qalandars. He had told everyone in the dugout before walking out on the pitch that he’ll win this match for fans of Quetta and he did. Only big players have this sort of attitude and I wish him success in the Asia Cup.”

Meanwhile, Nabi stated that it was a privilege for him to be part of the PSL and an amazing team like Quetta Gladiators. “This has been one of the most amazing experiences of my career as I shared dressing room with some of the best players. The atmosphere in the camp throughout was such that we enjoyed each others company,” Nabi said.

“Moin, Sir Vivian Richards and all the players were very welcoming and we played like a family. I pray that my team win the inaugural PSL and they can do it even without me because there are lot of match-winners in it and most importantly we play as a team.”

Nabi would be replaced by New Zealand all-rounder Nathan McCullum for the play-offs and Moin believes that his team has picked up another match-winner. “We’re bringing in a top T20 player in Nathan as he bowls well, can hit big towards the end and is an absolute brilliant fielder. Hopefully, Nathan will also create an impact in the PSL,” Moin concluded.

Published in Dawn, February 18th, 2016