GM Taleb Zaidi returned to the JMS draft with a clear goal: bring veteran leadership, solid defense, and a roster of guys who know how to win. In captain Imran Nasser, he chose not only one of the best all-around players in the league, but one of the most composed and competitive leaders available. Together, Taleb and Imran assembled a deep and seasoned roster that doesn’t rely on flash but is packed with experience and IQ. This is a team that will play smart, fundamental softball — and if the bats show up, they’ll be in every game.
While there are some questions about positional overlap and whether they have enough pop to match the league’s heavy hitters, the Lions might be the team no one wants to see in the playoffs.
🧢 Taleb Zaidi
The GM returns to active duty after building a competitive squad that embodies JMS fundamentals. Taleb will likely take the mound as the team’s pitcher and brings a steady presence that will allow his fielders to do their job. He’s not a flashy player, but his experience and calm demeanor will help anchor this team.
X-Factor: Can Taleb deliver consistent innings and keep opponents off balance with his pitch-to-contact style?
🔥 Imran Nasser
One of the top picks in the draft and the heart of the Lions. Imran brings elite play at shortstop, calm leadership, and the ability to anchor both sides of the game. His bat is among the league’s best, and his championship pedigree speaks for itself.
X-Factor: Can Imran’s steady leadership elevate the rest of the roster into a true contender?
🚀 Muzammil Jaffer
Muzammil slipped, and the Lions pounced. He’ll play OF and be counted on for his speed and glove. His bat is a wild card, but if he can get on base consistently, he could become a catalyst for the offense.
X-Factor: Will Muzammil’s bat continue to provide the spark the Lions need at the top of the order?
🔨 Hassan Badreddine
Joining after being a top performer at Al Whada, Hassan is a steady defender and power hitter. He’ll hold down an infield spot and contribute with his calm demeanour and smart at-bats.
X-Factor: Can Hassan increase his impact offensively and become a consistent presence in the heart of the lineup?
🎤 Jaafar Chalhoub
No one on this team brings the swagger and volume quite like Jaafar. He’ll be one of the most vocal players on the field, and that energy can be contagious. Likely to slot into the outfield as the QB, he’ll also bring power at the plate.
X-Factor: Can Jaafar channel his energy into leadership and deliver at key moments?
⚡ Hani Mamdani
A reliable glove and steady hitter, Hani can play both infield and outfield, offering much-needed flexibility. He’s a culture fit for this team — even-keeled and capable of making big plays quietly.
X-Factor: Will Hani find a consistent role and deliver timely hitting when the Lions need it?
🧠 Safder Jaffer
Quick and coachable, Safder will look to lock down either 2B or rover. He has elite speed and could be an underrated factor in the Lions’ defense.
X-Factor: Can Safder’s quickness and effort turn him into a defensive difference-maker?
🏏 Irfaan Jaffer
Irfaan brings experience and a solid glove. He may not offer much positional flexibility, but his bat gives the Lions a reliable option in the bottom of the order.
X-Factor: Can Irfaan provide timely hits and avoid being a defensive liability on a team with overlapping roles?
📚 Hasanain Panju
A long-time vet, Panju knows the game inside and out. While his bat has become predictable (always to left field), his glove at 3B can still be sharp.
X-Factor: Will Panju find a way to break out of his hitting tendencies and diversify his offensive contributions?
🧠 Arif Hirji
Arguably the highest softball IQ on the team, Arif’s limitation is his glove — 1B may be his only reliable defensive spot. With Irfaan ahead of him at 1B, he’ll need to explore 2B or 3B to crack the lineup.
X-Factor: Can Arif’s brain for the game help him adapt his glove and earn meaningful playing time?
💪 Muhammad Amarshi
A no-nonsense player, Amarshi brings quiet consistency. You know what you’re getting — reliable defense and contact hitting. He’s not flashy, but he fits well into this team’s balanced approach.
X-Factor: Will Amarshi’s steady game be enough to help the Lions win close matchups?
🎯 Minhaal Jeraj
Minhaal returns as a full-timer and is one of the most coachable players in JMS. Still looking to find a defensive home, he’s eager to contribute and has the attitude to succeed.
X-Factor: Can Minhaal lock down a position and provide valuable plate appearances late in games?
🧩 Syed Raza
New to JMS but not new to the game, Syed has a solid foundation and can contribute immediately. His versatility makes him a useful piece in the Lions’ rotation.
X-Factor: Will Syed acclimate quickly to JMS play and take advantage of early opportunities?
🧨 Mateen Manek
One of the youngest and most energetic players on the roster, Mateen has upside as a potential power bat. He could be a surprise spark plug.
X-Factor: Can Mateen channel his raw tools into production and earn a regular spot in the lineup?
Team X-Factors:
- Do the Lions have enough power to keep up with the league’s big-hitting teams?
- With several players eyeing similar positions, how will Taleb and Imran manage playing time?
- Can the leadership duo of Taleb and Imran keep the Lions sharp and focused all season long?