The fourth edition of Pakistan Super League, PSL 2019 which commences on the 14th of February is the premier T20 competition of Pakistan is aiming to replicate the success of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Big Bash Leagues. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has put in a real shift to make the competition successful by roping in a number of cricket stars from the past and present. Some of these big names have worldwide fan following which in turn helps the league develop its own viewership base. While the quality of cricket is a significant factor in the promotion of a T20 competition, the presence of stars acts as the x-factor. Lets us look at some of the big names participating in the 2019 Pakistan Super League. PSL 2019 Opening Ceremony Free Live Streaming in IST: Date, Time, Live Telecast of Pakistan Super League T20 on TV and Online in India.

AB De Villiers – Lahore Qalandars

Ever since he hung up his boots, AB De Villiers has played T20 leagues back home and in Bangladesh. Mr 360 as he is popularly called as still remains one of the most followed cricket star in the planet whose popularity knows no bounds. He has been snapped up by the Lahore Qalandars who are one of the underachievers since the inception of the league. But the presence of the former South African skipper can make a huge difference in their fortune. PSL 2019 Schedule: Full Timetable With Fixtures, Team, Venue, Match Timings in IST and PKT of Pakistan Super League 4.

Colin Munro - Karachi Kings

The New Zealand batsman is known for his breathtaking stroke play and boasts of the highest strike rate by a T20 batsman. Munro who was slated to appear in the PSL in the previous edition could not do so due to national commitments, but Karachi Kings can finally get to see the best of Munro which they missed last season. He is also well versed with playing long innings in T20 cricket something which we do not normally associate with a batsman in this format. PSL 2019 Teams Squad: Full Players List of All Pakistan Super League T20 Sides.

Sunil Narine - Quetta Gladiators

The West Indies spinner has successfully transformed into an all-rounder who can open both the batting and bowling for his team. On the slow dead wickets in UAE, he will be very difficult to get away, and Quetta Gladiators have done well in investing in him. He can also play as a floater in the batting line-up with his ability to score quick a real blessing for his team.

Shane Watson – Quetta Gladiators

Former Australian all-rounder will turn up for Quetta Gladiators after a wonderful last year in the T20 leagues around the world. He has been retained by his franchisee who are looking to build their team around Watson. He will likely open the batting for his side and is a wicket-taking option in the middle overs with his bowling.

Babar Azam – Karachi Kings

One of Pakistan’s finest cricketers at the moment, Babar Azam showcased why he is so highly rated on the South Africa tour recently with some brilliant knocks. His technique against both pace and spin makes him a solid no three batsman, and Karachi Kings will greatly benefit from his services. For the record, he is currently the best T20 batsman in the ICC rankings.

Keiron Pollard – Peshawar Zalmi

We may not get to see the Keiron Pollard of old times, but the West Indies cricketer still remains a force to reckon with in T20 cricket. The most capped T20 cricketer of all time has been roped in by the Peshawar Zalmi to help them win the league. His batting may have depreciated, but his bowling and fielding still remain world class.

These cricketers have been the success stories in the various T20 leagues across the world, and they are certain to raise the bar in terms of the quality of the Pakistan Super League.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 14, 2019 06:14 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).