PSL 5: Anwer Ali replaces Umar Akmal in Quetta Gladiators Squad

Anwar Ali has been included in the Quetta Gladiators squad as a replacement of Umar Akmal.

The last-minute change was made after the PCB’s decision earlier in the day to suspend Akmal from all cricket activities for allegedly violating its Anti-Corruption Code.

Pakistani middle-order batsman Umar Akmal was suspended by Pakistan Cricket Board with immediate effect under their Anti-Corruption code on Thursday morning. The nature of the offence has not been revealed yet.

With the latest development, Umar Akmal is set to miss the Pakistan Super League Season 5.

The 32-year-old all-rounder, Anwar comes in as a Silver category player. He had turned out for Quetta Gladiators in all previous editions, scoring 191 runs and taking 23 wickets in 32 PSL matches.

Earlier, Quetta Gladiators responded to  Umar Akmal’s suspension in a statement,  saying “The reigning PSL Champions Quetta Gladiators would like to state that @TheRealPCB is already investigating the matter of Umar Akmal and the franchise will not make any comment until the inquiry is concluded. Meanwhile, Gladiators will take a replacement pick.

The defending champions, Quetta Gladiators, will play its PSL 5’s opening match tonight against two-time champion Islamabad United at the National Stadium, Karachi at 9 pm.