As the race to the finals heats up, cricket fans are being treated to some thrilling and nail-biting encounters. The ongoing Global Super League has delivered high-intensity action, with every match carrying huge significance as teams battle for a spot in the title clash.

In one such tense match, Rangpur Riders were defending a modest total of 159 runs. During a crucial moment, all-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed dropped an important catch of Niroshan Dickwella, which could have shifted the momentum in the opposition’s favor. The missed opportunity did not go unnoticed, as fans reacted with sarcasm and criticism towards the all-rounder for the costly error.

Despite the dropped catch, Rangpur Riders held their nerves in the final overs. Their bowlers stepped up under pressure and ensured the team crossed the finish line. With this hard-fought win, Rangpur Riders secured a place in the final of the Global Super League 2025, keeping their championship hopes alive.

See Also: GSL T20 2025: CS vs RAN Prediction– Match 10, Who will win today?

Iftikhar Ahmed’s Comedy of Errors:

The cricket world witnessed thrilling T20 heats as the Global Super Leagues are spreading unreal thrills. As the Rangpur Riders and the Dubai Capitals crossed swords in the eighth match of the clash, fans were treated to a nail-biter. Setting a target of 159, the Riders’ bowlers took charge and lit up the game with fiery spells to defend the total.

In the fourth over of the second innings, Pakistani all-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed came to bowl, and Dickwella was on strike. After Iftikhar bowled the fourth delivery, the batter slogged it, but the ball soared high and went towards the bowler.

Among all, Iftikhar’s approach grabbed the attention. He theatrically gestured for the ball to come to him, only to fumble an easy catch. Even the commentators couldn’t resist a sarcastic dig, leaving fans in splits over the comical blunder. The moment has gone viral.

Ball was scared of falling into the mighty hands of Iftimania 🤣pic.twitter.com/Ux9baKiUR4

— Kh4N PCT (@Kh4N_PCT) July 16, 2025

Rangpur Riders Head Towards the Big Final:

The Global Super League 2025 continues to thrill cricket fans, and the recent clash between Rangpur Riders and Dubai Capitals added more excitement to the tournament. With their latest win, the Riders extended their unbeaten run and delivered another impressive performance.

Batting first, Rangpur suffered an early blow as Ibrahim Zadran was dismissed for just 1 run. However, a steady 37-run stand between Soumya Sarkar and Kyle Mayers helped stabilize the innings. The Capitals' bowlers kept the pressure on, but a crucial 57-run partnership between Iftikhar Ahmed and Nurul Hasan gave the Riders a much-needed boost, helping them post 150 runs.

Defending the target, Rangpur's bowlers rose to the occasion. Saif Hassan and Khaled Ahmed delivered fiery spells that kept the Dubai Capitals in check. Despite some resistance, the Capitals fell short by 8 runs. With this hard-fought win, Rangpur Riders booked their spot in the finals, where they’ll meet the Guyana Amazon Warriors on July 18.

Recently, a training camp with Pakistani cricketer Iftikhar Ahmed has sparked backlash after a video made the rounds of him training without a shirt on a cricket field. The video had gotten out on social media very quickly and was viewed by numerous people who saw Iftikhar performing rigorous fitness training without his shirt on—an event that questioned player safety while training as well as professionalism as a member of the team. 

What some considered either a humorous or traumatic fitness routine resulted in serious health and image issues for others. A medical professional commented on social media, "Practicing without a shirt is dangerous in open conditions—with exposure, heat, and risk of dehydration." Fans added to the conversations—while most people who viewed the video suggested this behavior should not be part of any team training session, they accused the manager, coaching staff, and/or support staff of not having a clear-cut and standard process regarding training protocols for players under their supervision.

Training in hot conditions without a shirt will also raise the risk of a heat-related incident, sunburn, and eventually fatigue if athletes do not manage their hydration and protection correctly. Critics were of the view that athletes, especially at the international level, have a standard of discipline and responsibility not only for themselves but also to provide an example for young aspiring players. While some fans supported the cricketer's decision as a matter of comfort during physically intense drills, the majority were concerned about the image and professionalism it presented.

@IftiMania practicing without wearing a shirt. Has he lost his Mind? Is there NO accountability in @TheRealPCB? As a doctor I can tell you how dangerous this can be.#PakistanCricket I #IftikharAhmad pic.twitter.com/OTfjCWFYpD

— Pakistan Cricket Team USA FC (@DoctorofCricket) July 4, 2025

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Continued Concerns Regarding Fitness Culture and Management Standards

The incident raised greater questions about the fitness culture and management standards within the national setup. Many people felt that permitting players to train without the right attire and without protection set a poor example of the professionalism of the team environment.

A number of fans and pundits suggested that training in a supervised structured plan is essential for first-class/tier athletes. Regardless of whether Iftikhar's training was spontaneous or a habit, it raises the importance of supervision, coaching, structured training, and achieving standards on and off the field—especially as we lead up to important international commitments.

The defending champions, Rangpur Riders, have officially confirmed their squad for the upcoming 2025 Guyana Global Super League (GSL), to be held from July 10 to 18 at the Guyana National Stadium in Providence. A major highlight of their announcement is the inclusion of three Pakistan cricketers, Iftikhar Ahmed, Akif Javed, and Khawaja Nafay, all set to make their GSL debuts.

Veteran all-rounder Iftikhar, known for his powerful finishing and utility with the ball, brings valuable T20 experience from leagues like the BPL and LPL. Left-arm pacer Akif Javed, another LPL product, adds firepower to the bowling department. Meanwhile, middle-order batter Khawaja Nafay enters his second overseas league after two promising BPL stints.

Rangpur target second GSL title as Pakistan players join squad

Rangpur has retained its leadership core from last season’s dramatic title run. Nurul Hasan continues as captain, with Soumya Sarkar the top scorer in GSL 2024, returning to anchor the batting lineup. Pace spearhead Kamrul Islam Rabbi, instrumental in their bowling success last year, is also part of the squad. Rangpur’s 2024 campaign was one to remember after starting with three straight losses, the Riders rallied with three consecutive wins to lift the trophy. Their blend of attacking flair, discipline, and leadership proved decisive.

The franchise, already a heavyweight in the Bangladesh Premier League with a title in 2017 and consistent playoff finishes since, now looks to extend its dominance to the GSL stage once again. The announcement coincides with a wider update from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which has issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to 13 players for overseas T20 leagues. Among those approved is Khawaja Nafay, while clearances for Iftikhar and Akif are expected shortly.

ALSO SEE: R Ashwin's Wife Shares Emotional Post Ahead Of 1st India vs England Test

Other Pakistan players set to appear in the GSL include Saud Shakeel (Guyana Amazon Warriors), Mohammad Nawaz, and Sahibzada Farhan (both signed by the Hobart Hurricanes). NOCs for Nawaz and Nafay are already confirmed, while Saud and Farhan await final approvals.

Rangpur Riders squad for GSL 2025:

Nurul Hasan Sohan, Soumya Sarkar, Mohammed Naim Sheikh, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Kamrul Islam Rabbi, Mohammed Saif Hassan, Abu Haider Rony, Rakibul Hasan, Yasir Ali Chowdhury, Kyle Mayers, Tabraiz Shamsi, Ibrahim Zadran, Iftikhar Ahmed, Akif Javed, Harmeet Singh, Khawaja Nafay

Guyana Amazon Warriors squad for GSL 2025:

Imran Tahir, Evin Lewis, Johnson Charles, Moeen Ali, Shimron Hetmyer, Saud Shakeel, Romario Shepherd, Dwain Pretorius, Gudakesh Motie, Akeal Hossein, Ramanullah Gurbaz, Mark Adair, Jewel Andrew, Shamar Springer, Amir Jangoo.

Hobart Hurricanes squad for GSL 2025:

Ben McDermott, Billy Stanlake, Nikhil Chaudhary, Jackson Bird, Tim Ward, Jake Doran, Raf MacMillan, Marcus Bean, Mac Wright, Sahibzada Farhan, Mohammed Nawaz, Mohammed Nabi, Odean Smith.

The defending champions, Rangpur Riders, have officially announced their squad for the upcoming 2025 ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL), set to be held at the Guyana National Stadium in Providence from 10 to 18 July. As titleholders, the Riders will return to Caribbean shores looking to replicate their dramatic title run from last year and retain their crown.

In the 2024 season, Rangpur Riders turned it around with a grand flourish—beginning with three straight losses followed by three consecutive victories to capture the title. Their gritty fightback, which was fueled by good leadership, an attacking bowling pack, and aggressive top-order hitting, endeared them to fans and entrenched themselves in GSL lore.

With one of the best records in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) for consistency, the Riders arrive with a history of high-quality cricket. BPL champions in 2017 and constant playoff hopefuls ever since, Rangpur continues to show us the characteristics of will and reserve that define quality T20 franchises.

Star Power and Strategic Depth

The Riders have kept the mainstay of their 2024 championship team intact. Wicket-keeper captain Nurul Hasan comes back to captain the team, accompanied by top scorer of the tournament Soumya Sarkar and pace head Kamrul Islam Rabbi. They are supported by a combination of local heroics in Mohammed Naim Sheikh, Yasir Ali, and Abu Haider Rony, each of whom contributes crucial domestic and international experience.

See Also: GSL 2025: Hobart Hurricanes XI announce their squad for upcoming season

The global playing list includes dynamic West Indian opener Kyle Mayers, South African wrist-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, Afghan batting prodigy Ibrahim Zadran, and experienced Pakistani all-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed. They bring their numbers up in Rangpur's roster with diversity, regional Caribbean experience, and top-level pressure composure.

Their 2025 GSL playing list for the Rangpur Riders includes:
Nurul Hasan Sohan, Soumya Sarkar, Mohammed Naim Sheikh, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Kamrul Islam Rabbi, Mohammed Saif Hassan, Abu Haider Rony, Rakibul Hasan, Yasir Ali Chowdhury, Kyle Mayers, Tabraiz Shamsi, Ibrahim Zadran, Iftikhar Ahmed, Akif Javed, Harmeet Singh, and Khawaja Nafay.

🚨 GSL Update

Rangpur Riders have announced their squad for GSL 2025. Nurul Hasan Sohan will lead the team. Overseas signings include :

Kyle Mayers 🏝️
Tabraiz Shamsi 🇿🇦
Ibrahim Zadran 🇦🇫
Khawaja Nafay 🇵🇰
Iftikhar Ahmad 🇵🇰
Akif Javed 🇵🇰
Harmeet Singh 🇺🇸#GSL2025 pic.twitter.com/NHTbNtqcNk

— T20 Franchise Rosters (Men) (@t20tracker) June 19, 2025

Mohammad Rizwan’s tenure as Pakistan’s ODI captain, which began in October 2024, has come under intense scrutiny following a lackluster Champions Trophy campaign and a 0-3 ODI series defeat to New Zealand.  Rizwan proved himself valuable to Pakistan after taking over from Babar Azam by winning the ODI series against Australia. The Champions Trophy hosted in Pakistan ended in failure as Pakistan's team lost three matches, including against New Zealand and India, while a match versus Bangladesh was canceled due to rain, thus placing Pakistan dead last in their group.

When Salman Ali Agha took over as T20I captain, he replaced Rizwan and Babar from the team that was set to play against New Zealand. The ODI setback to New Zealand strengthened concerns about Rizwan's capabilities to lead, as some questioned whether his time in command would soon come to an end. Rizwan receives solid support from his Multan Sultans teammate Iftikhar Ahmed as they both participate in the Pakistan Super League matches.

During a recent interview, Iftikhar declared Rizwan to have the best available options for captaincy. “For me, if you compare everywhere, I think Rizwan is the best option. It’s not because he is my friend or that we play for the same club. If you assess our options, Rizwan is the best choice, and he can improve,” Iftikhar said. Rizwan demonstrates qualities of leadership development, which makes him the best captaincy choice at present. He challenged critics to understand that no better option exists for leadership selection.

Watch the video

“Rizwan is the best choice for captaincy of Pakistan Cricket Team.” - Iftikhar Ahmed. #PSLX pic.twitter.com/rzkFqLwMXW

— Arfa Feroz Zake (@ArfaSays_) April 15, 2025

Also Read: PSL 2025: KAR vs QUE Match 8 - A Head to Head breakdown

Rizwan’s Response to Criticism

Trolls have targeted Rizwan with mockery about his English language skills in addition to his captaincy duties. “The demand from me is cricket, not English. There is a regret that I did not complete my education, which is why I struggle in speaking English,” Rizwan stated. A sense of regret exists because he failed to hold on until graduation, so he faces difficulties in English communication. As a result, he urges younger players to make education their main priority.

The Pakistani cricketer remarked with a hint of comedy that he would start teaching as a professor anytime Pakistan asked for English fluency, although he lacks the time right now. Rizwan shows determination to bring Pakistan future triumphs by focusing on performance under the support of Iftikhar's approval.

The much-anticipated tenth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL 10) is just around the corner, and excitement is at an all-time high. With the PSL 2025 Draft officially concluded, the squads are locked in, and all eyes are on the Multan Sultans (MUL), one of the most consistent and formidable teams in the league’s history.

Over the years, MUL have built a reputation for assembling a well-balanced squad, mixing experienced international stars with top-performing local talent. Their sharp selections have regularly taken them to the tournament finals, and this year’s lineup looks just as promising.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the top players who have made it into the Multan Sultans squad for PSL 10. From powerhouse foreign signings to emerging local stars, here’s everything you need to know about the team aiming to dominate PSL 2025.

Also Read: HBL PSL 2025 Match Live Streaming: Where & How to Watch on TV

Multan Sultan (MUL) Squad 2025

The following list includes all the projected players who are now officially part of the Multan Sultans squad for PSL 10. Some names come as no surprise — loyal performers who’ve consistently stood by the team and contributed to its success over the years. With a strong mix of seasoned campaigners and exciting new additions, the MUL are geared up for yet another title challenge.

There are six majorly categories in which the players are divided:

1. Platinum
2. Diamond
3. Gold
4. Silver
5. Emerging
6. Supplementary

There’s no doubt that MUL are entering the tenth edition of PSL with one of the strongest squads in the competition. Leading the charge is none other than Mohammad Rizwan, who is Pakistan’s national team captain, a consistent top-order batter, and one of the best wicketkeepers in the modern game. His leadership has been pivotal in guiding Multan Sultans to the finals in past seasons, and he’s determined to clinch the trophy this time around.

Multan Sultans: Key Players to watch out for

Despite being an overall strong team, there are certain pillars of the team who have contributed much to the success of the team over the years.

1. Mohammad Rizwan
2. Kamran Ghulam
3. Tayyab Tahir
4. Shai Hope
5. Usama Mir
6. David Willey
7. Chris Jordan
8. Michael Bracewell

From 2021 to 2024, Multan Sultans consistently reached the PSL final, showcasing their remarkable performance and team strength. Although they fell short in the finals for three consecutive years, their consistent appearances highlight the strategic efforts of the team management. It’s clear that Multan Sultans carefully build a competitive squad each season, ensuring they remain strong contenders for the title year after year.

Following a heated altercation during the Karachi Ghazis versus Larkana Challengers match in the ongoing Sindh Premier League (SPL) 2024, Iftikhar Ahmed has issued a formal apology. Playing for the Ghazis, Ahmed clashed with Asad Shafiq, who represents the Challengers, after dismissing the former Pakistan batsman.

The on-field dispute unfolded as Ahmed celebrated the dismissal aggressively, provoking Shafiq’s displeasure. The incident escalated with an exchange of words, requiring intervention from other players to defuse the situation and restore order.

Iftikhar Ahmed Offers Apology:

Post-match, Iftikhar Ahmed publicly apologized on X, acknowledging his failure to control his behavior and expressing regret for his reaction. Ahmed further disclosed that he personally met Shafiq after the game to extend his apology, stating:

“I deeply regret my on-field behavior today; my reaction in the heat of the moment was inappropriate. I personally apologized to @asadshafiq1986 Bhai after the match. I have always held him in high regard, and we’ve shared many moments on the cricket field together.”

In the match, Iftikhar Ahmed showcased an all-around performance with both bat and ball, contributing significantly to the Ghazis’ commanding victory. He played a pivotal role by smashing 69 runs off a mere 43 balls, aiding his team in posting a competitive total of 160 runs. Facing a challenging situation at 2 for 3 and later at 26 for 4, Iftikhar’s half-century proved crucial in rescuing the Ghazis. Additionally, his partnership with Muneeb Wasif (31) for the fifth wicket, amassing 92 runs, further solidified their position before Iftikhar was eventually dismissed.

In the bowling department, the Challengers struggled and were eventually bowled out for a mere 92 runs. Aimal Khan excelled with the ball, securing 4 wickets, while Iftikhar Ahmed also made a notable contribution by claiming 3 wickets.

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