Former English cricketer and Multan Sultans spin bowling coach, Alex Hartley, is shattering barriers in Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine.
Initially apprehensive about cultural acceptance, Hartley found herself warmly embraced by the Multan Sultans’ fraternity.
“Everyone is welcoming and understanding. Ali (Tareen, the franchise owner) has broken boundaries. When he rang me and told me I need you at Multan Sultans, I just couldn’t turn it down. It’s a lot more than cricket,” Hartley said.
Upon her arrival, a team meeting led by Ali introduced her as the bowling coach, instantly making her feel at home.
“As soon as I arrived, we had a team meeting. Ali sat down everyone and said this is your bowling coach, this is your fielding coach blah blah. I instantly felt at home,” she further added.
Despite not yet mastering Hindi or Urdu, communication hasn’t been an issue thanks to an interpreter. However, Hartley acknowledges the importance of learning a few words of the local languages.
“I need to learn at least a few words of Hindi and Urdu,” she said.
Hartley also highlighted the dedication of Usama Mir, who diligently worked on his game to address weaknesses.
“I think he (Usama) has put on a lot of hard work before the competition. He reflected on the World Cup. He came and told us straight away to look where he was leaking runs, and this was where he wanted to improve,” she said.
Remaining a stalwart for women’s cricket, Hartley envisions broader platforms like the Women’s Premier League (WPL) gaining more prominence.
“It’s probably one of the best tournaments in the world just behind The Hundred, It’s been played only in Bengaluru and Delhi. That’s a lot of games. Showing women’s cricket is accessible to everyone. I would love to see WPL getting more extended,” she concluded.
