Massive blow to Lahore Qalandars as Chris Lynn, others quit PSL 2020

Lahore Qalandars will suffer a blow as hard-hitting batsman Chris Lynn announces an early exit from PSL 2020 amidst coronavirus scare

March 16, 2020
Photo: PCB

Lahore Qalandars’ bid to secure their maiden Pakistan Super League (PSL) title suffered a massive blow late Sunday night when Australian cricketer Chris Lynn dropped the bomb shell that he was heading back home due to a novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in various countries.

"Thoroughly enjoyed my time at the PSL unfortunately in these circumstances I’ve chosen to head home," Lynn, who had scored 113 off 55 balls earlier in the day to help the Qalandars beat Multan Sultans by 9 wickets and book their place in the semi-finals for the first time ever, wrote on his Instagram account.

"I’ve always said there is more to life than cricket and this is certainly one of these cases. I have full faith in the Lahore Qalandars to go all the way but more importantly, have fun lads! Thank you to everyone involved, Pakistan you have been a blast," he added.

READ: Peshawar Zalmi hit hardest as glut of stars quit PSL 2020 due to coronavirus

Earlier, two other Lahore Qalandars players, David Wiese and Seekkuge Prasanna, had also decided to return to their countries following the Pakistan Cricket Board’s decision to allow players to withdraw from the ongoing PSL 2020.

Wiese also confirmed on his Twitter account that he's flying back home and Sunday's game against Multan Sultans was his last match.

"It’s been an amazing experience playing for Lahore Qalandars in this year's PSL. Unfortunately, this is the end of the tournament for me, but I would like to thank each and every Qalander fan for all your support," he tweeted.

"I’ve really enjoyed my time in Pakistan and hope to be back soon," the South African added.

Lahore Qalandars are now left with Ben Dunk, Samit Patel, and Dane Vilas as their foreign players in the squad.

Earlier, Karachi Kings bowler Mitchell McClenaghan was also released from PSL 2020.

Semi-finals of the tournament will be played on Tuesday, with Multan Sultans taking on Peshawar Zalmi in the first fixture and Lahore Qalandars taking on Karachi Kings in the second.

Faizan Lakhani is Deputy Editor (Sports) at Geo News.

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