on the ps.cfg dont use localhost, use the ip address that was provided in the file, 127. something or another.
the /rank and all that takes a few seconds to load because it query;s your DB and then displays the information in the MOTD thru IE or w/e.
IF your not connecting to the DB it wont work.
Dont use local host use
if that doesnt work then yo have to edit your mysql settings.
If you are using the ip try using "localhost" and if that dont work then refer to your mysql documentation or the mysql documentation to make the required setting changes.