PSL 7: Sir Vivian Richards gave me confidence, Afridi encouraged me, says Umar Akmal

Quetta Gladiators batter Umar Akmal said that the Gladiators mentor Sir Vivian and Shahid Afridi gave him confidence and encouraged him, which allowed him to perform well against Islamabad United at the Gaddafi Stadium last night.

Umar Akmal was exceptional against Islamabad United and steered his team to victory with his cameo. Umar smoked three sixes to score a blistering 8-ball 23 against United.

"Sir Vivian Richards gave me confidence and said that I have to be confident, and Shahid Afridi encouraged me as usual," Umar Akmal said.

"Umar Gul said that you have won many matches for Pakistan in such a situation. I believed in myself, and I was honored, and the innings helped the Gladiators win the match," he added.

Umar Akmal played his first match for Quetta Gladiators against Islamabad United in PSL 7. He appeared in action after two years.

Umar Akmal added that he is grateful to the Gladiators team management, who trusted him and gave him the chance to play in the PSL.

"I am grateful to the Quetta Gladiators team management who trusted me and gave me the opportunity in PSL, and I got respect because of them," the 31-year-old said.

Talking about his innings and the Quetta Gladiators position in the PSL 2022, Umar said that he played according to the role given to him and the Gladiators are in a firm position in the ongoing PSL.

"I tried to play according to the role given to me by the management," Umar said. "The rhythm of Quetta Gladiators is well established in PSL. Jason Roy and Ahsan Ali make a strong foundation, and later the batsmen who come in at third and fourth move it forward."

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