England's Ian Bell eager to take up maiden PSL challenge with Islamabad United

Waseem Ahmed 10:58 02/12/2018
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  • Ian Bell is set for a maiden PSL stint.

    Veteran batsman Ian Bell is looking forward to his maiden participation in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) after being picked up by defending champions Islamabad United in the player draft.

    The England batsman continues to grow strong at 36 with a stint in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) lined up as well apart from his participation in the PSL.

    “I had a very good T20 campaign this year with Birmingham Bears and I played franchise cricket with Perth Scorchers last year,” Bell told Sky Sport’s Saj Sadiq.

    “Because I am currently not playing international cricket there is the opportunity to go and play in the top leagues against the best players in the world which is something that you want to do to keep challenging yourself.

    “Obviously the Pakistan Super League is one of those top competitions and you have some of the best T20 players in the world playing in it. In addition, you have some of the most talented players in the world from Pakistan and we all saw what they can do at the Champions Trophy.”

    The Warwickshire batsman revealed that he has spoken to his former England team-mate Kevin Pietersen about the experience of playing in the PSL.

    “I’ve spoken to a few people like Kevin Pietersen and a few other players who have taken part in the PSL and they all spoke highly of it. I’m really excited about it and I’ve seen bits and pieces of the tournament when I’ve had the time,” said Bell.

    “The standard always looks particularly good and the grounds are fantastic and the fact that there are going to be games in Pakistan is brilliant for Pakistan cricket. The PSL is a tournament that I really wanted to play in and it’s nice to get the opportunity to do so.”

    With eight matches of the next PSL edition set to take place on Pakistan soil, there are question marks over the willingness of overseas stars to make that journey.

    Bell, however, has confirmed his total commitment to the cause should the need arise. “Yes, I would. 110 per cent. I will go to Pakistan to play PSL matches there,” he said.

    The fourth edition of the PSL will get under way in the UAE on February 14, 2019.

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