Adam Zampa starred as Karachi Kings edged out Shaheen Afridi’s Lahore Qalandars by four wickets in the Pakistan Super League at the Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday. The Australian wrist-spinner-like leg-spinner delivered a sharp spell, finishing with 2 for 11 in his four overs, including a maiden, to earn Player of the Match. Zampa is set to turn out against Rawalpindi next on Thursday.
Quick facts
- Match: Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars (Shaheen Afridi-led) in PSL
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium
- Result: Karachi Kings won by four wickets
- Zampa’s figures: 2/11 in four overs, including a maiden
- Award: Player of the Match
- Next up: Rawalpindi on Thursday
With the next fixture looming, Zampa explained why he opted for the Pakistan Super League rather than returning to the Indian Premier League. He said he was not really in the IPL conversation at the time and noted that he withdrew from the tournament earlier this year.
Zampa was not included in the 350-player shortlist for the IPL 2026 auction. He had also been released by Sunrisers Hyderabad ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, and following that, he chose to take his chances in the PSL.
Why the PSL, not the IPL?
Zampa pointed to the business side of franchise cricket, saying that a player with his specific skill profile typically does not command the same kind of money as other roles. He also highlighted the heavy time demands that come with the IPL, adding that it did not feel like a practical decision for him to keep playing in that setup.
He further revealed that he had been planning to step away, but the PSL opportunity came up about a month ago. Zampa said the move happened quickly and that he is enjoying his time in the competition.
In the IPL, Zampa has previously turned out for Rising Pune Supergiant, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad. Across 22 IPL appearances so far, he has taken 31 wickets, underscoring the impact he has made in limited opportunities.
