Imad Wasim credits late coach Dean Jones for title victory

Imad Wasim, Karachi Kings' skipper, acknowledged the late Dean Jones's contribution after his side lifted their maiden Pakistan Super League title on Tuesday (November 17), having overcome Lahore Qalandars. He also displayed gratitude to Wasim Akram, who had stepped into Jones's role seamlessly as his replacement in the play-offs.

Jones, whose sudden death due to a heart attack he suffered in Mumbai during his IPL commentary stint a couple of months ago, was the coach of the Karachi Kings for the PSL 2020. Jones, who had coached Islamabad United in the past, took on the role at the Kings in March before the COVID-19 pandemic put a halt to cricket all over the world, with the PSL being halted just before the play-offs.

"Dean Jones, of course, gets credit because what he taught us, very few coaches in the world can," Imad said after the win. "Wasim Akram, of course, deserves the trophy because he was our bowling coach, head coach, mentor and team president rolled in one. It's an honour to captain this franchise," he added.

On resumption of the PSL, before their game against the Multan Sultans, both teams paid homage to the late cricketer with a D formation with their players before a moment's silence. There was also a cardboard cutout of Jones in the Kings' dugout that read "We miss you!"