Lahore Qalandars celebrate overseas stars with UK trophy tour

LONDON: Reigning Pakistan Super League (PSL) champions Lahore Qalandars in an unprecedented move brought their championship trophy to the United Kingdom to celebrate with their overseas players, Sam Billings and Tom Curran, who had missed the final matches of the tournament.

The celebratory event was hosted by Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK, Dr Mohammad Faisal, at the Pakistan High Commission in London. 

The gathering was attended by key figures from the Qalandars’ management, including CEO Atif Rana and COO Sameen Rana, team captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, and England-based Qalandars players Sam Billings and Tom Curran. 

Also in attendance were former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Najam Sethi, journalist Jugnu Mohsin, and members of the Pakistani diaspora and media.

Speaking to Geo News, Shaheen Shah Afridi who led Qalandars to their third triumph in PSL in the last four years, emphasised the significance of Lahore Qalandars’ recent achievements. 

“To win three trophies in four years is not child’s play, but all credit goes to our player development program. A lot of hard work is done to groom young local talent, and their performances have played a major role,” he said.

“Both Sam and Tom missed the final, so we decided to bring the trophy to them instead. This is what makes Qalandars so special — we love to share every moment of joy no matter how small it may loom like with each and every member of the Qalandars family,” Shaheen added, explaining the reason for bringing the trophy to England.

Sam Billings praised the inclusive and nurturing culture within the franchise, saying: “Sameen and Shaheen create a very unique and special environment. They truly care about each individual, and that’s why you see so many players performing at their best.”

Echoing a similar sentiment, Tom Curran shared: “From day one, it felt like home. Everyone — from management to the players — made us feel welcome. Even in difficult circumstances, it was a pleasure to be part of the team.”

CEO Atif Rana expressed gratitude to the High Commission for hosting the event. “We’re grateful to Dr Mohammad Faisal for honouring us. We’re here to include our diaspora, especially the youth who follow Lahore Qalandars passionately,” he said, highlighting the support of the UK-based Pakistani community.

“Due to the tense situation during the tournament, Sam and Tom couldn’t return for the final, but we wanted to make sure they were part of our celebrations,” he added.

Sameen Rana revealed future plans to deepen Qalandars’ engagement with the UK cricketing landscape, saying: “We plan to hold overseas trials here in the UK and collaborate with county clubs through exchange programs. This will help young Pakistani talent gain exposure and possibly represent not just Qalandars but other franchises too.”

Najam Sethi, credited with launching the PSL, reflected on the team’s journey and name origin. “When Atif told me they wanted to name the team ‘Qalandars’, I initially wasn’t a fan. I thought we needed a warrior name. But Atif insisted on highlighting the Sufi tradition,” he said. 

“Today, Lahore Qalandars is a household name and a top franchise — and my heart will always stay with them,” he further added.

Dr Mohammad Faisal, who hosted the gathering, expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments, saying: “It’s heartwarming to welcome our sports dignitaries. We wanted to host a larger event, but time was short."

He added: "Lahore Qalandars are doing a fantastic job, and we hope this success continues on the global stage when these players represent their national teams.”

The event also marked a symbolic gesture by Lahore Qalandars to celebrate their commitment to growing cricket both at home and abroad.