Quetta Gladiators' bowling coach Umar Gul is optimistic for his team's comeback in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 8.
After losing four matches out of five, Gladiators' position to qualify in the playoffs looks quite difficult. They will try to win their remaining matches in order to make their position strong in the tournament.
Gul, after his side lost to Islamabad United by 63 runs in Karachi on Friday, told media that still they can make a comeback in the event.
"We are too disappointed on this performance," said the former Test cricketer. "I think we are still very much in the tournament. We still have a complete chance to make a comeback from here," he added.
Gladiators are currently at fourth number on the points table. They will next face Lahore Qalandars in at their home on March 2.
Gul praised Azam Khan who made a real difference between Quetta and Islamabad in the 13th match of the league. "Azam played really well and took the match away from us. We made mistakes in all departments. I know we could have done better," he added.
"We have told players that still five matches are left. If we play according to our strength, we will be in the tournament," he maintained.
Azam stars as Islamabad thrash Quetta
Azam Khan dominated as Islamabad United thrashed Quetta Gladiators by 63 runs in the 13th match of the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) at the National Bank Cricket Arena in Karachi on Friday.
Opting to bat first, United posted a massive 221-run target on the scoreboard before bowling out Gladiators for 157 in 19.1 overs, thanks to a sensational batting display by Azam and a great display by the bowlers.
In reply to the big total, Gladiators couldn't find the momentum as they lost quick wickets.
Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez played a crucial innings as he helped a struggling Gladiators get back on its feet by scoring 48 runs off 26 balls.
With his innings, Hafeez stitched a 69-run partnership with skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed for the fourth wicket.
Due to wickets falling after regular intervals and required run-rate going out of reach, Gladiators tasted another defeat.