Karachi Kings release Gayle, Pollard

West Indies batting star Chris Gayle has been released by Pakistan Super League (PSL) team Karachi Kings ahead of the new season.

Gayle joined the Kings last season after previously representing the Lahore Qalanders in the first edition of the tournament. The big left-hander, however, struggled to make an impression during his time with the franchise, making 160 runs in nine matches. Gayle who averaged 17.77 had a high score of 44. Interestingly, however, the franchise also released Kieron Pollard who was the team’s third highest scorer last season, with an average of 40.20. Sri Lanka batting star Kumar Sangakkara was also among thosr released by the team who finished fourth in last season’s competition.

Karachi also released Pakistan all-rounder Shoaib Malik, in a major surprise as the former captain has been in prime form for Pakistan in ODIs and T20 Internationals.

All the five franchises in the PSL were required to release 10 players, two in each category including foreigners to allow new entrant Multan Sultans to sign on 10 players next week. Last year’s edition was won by Darren Sammy’s Peshawar Zalmi. (SportsMax)