LAHORE: Opening batter Sharjeel Khan says that he will make his bat pave the way back for him in the national team but admits that journey to the top is not that easy.
Sharjeel, now representing the debutant franchise Hyderabad Kingsmen in PSL 11 (2026), has spoken about his comeback, fitness transformation, and ambitions to return to the national team. After a two-year absence from the league, Sharjeel’s fluent half-century against Multan Sultans marked a significant step in his revival.
Sharjeel admitted that the journey back to top-level cricket was far from easy. Having shed considerable weight during his hiatus, he emphasized the importance of fitness in his return. “A comeback is always difficult. I’ve worked hard on my fitness during this two-year gap, and Alhamdullilah, I availed the chance today,” he said. His transformation has been evident on the field, where he has adapted to a new role in the middle order after spending two decades as a career opener.
Traditionally known for his explosive starts at the top, Sharjeel has embraced the challenge of batting at number five. “It isn’t easy after opening for 20-21 years, but I am practicing for both—facing the new ball and playing spinners in the middle. I will give 100% wherever the team needs me,” he explained. His willingness to reinvent himself as a finisher reflects both maturity and versatility, qualities that could prove vital for Hyderabad Kingsmen as they seek their first win of the season.
Despite Sharjeel’s brisk half-century, Hyderabad Kingsmen suffered their third consecutive defeat, with Multan Sultans chasing down 226 with ease. Sharjeel attributed the loss to heavy dew, which made bowling conditions extremely difficult. “The heavy dew made it very difficult for our bowlers to grip or bowl the ball. We set a target of 226 and should have won, but that’s cricket—the dew factor was huge,” he said. He also acknowledged that as a new franchise, Hyderabad needs time to gel, adding, “Improvement will come gradually, Insha’Allah.”
Sharjeel praised captain Marnus Labuschagne, describing him as a “massive name in cricket” whose global experience is invaluable to the squad. He also highlighted the influence of head coach Jason Gillespie and mentor Hanif Malik, noting that their guidance has helped him refine his batting drills and tactical approach. “Having someone like Gillespie in the dressing room is a great learning experience for us,” Sharjeel remarked.
Addressing speculation about his future, Sharjeel firmly denied rumors of switching allegiance to the USA. “I only go there to play tournaments during the off-season. I don’t live there, and I have no plans to settle there or play for the US national team. My priority has always been playing for Pakistan,” he clarified. His focus remains on regaining a spot in the national side, with fitness and consistent performances in PSL 11 forming the cornerstone of his comeback bid.
Sharjeel revealed that he has stayed motivated by playing domestic cricket consistently since 2021. Representing Ghani Glass and his regional side Hyderabad, he has used every opportunity to sharpen his skills. “I haven’t missed a single domestic season. I’ve spent these last two years specifically improving my fitness to stay ready,” he said.
Reflecting on the high-scoring encounter, Sharjeel acknowledged the quality of the pitch but reiterated that dew tilted the balance. “The pitch was very good; we made 226 and Multan chased it. They batted very well, but the ball wasn’t gripping—it was skidding onto the bat beautifully. Our bowling struggled a bit, and the dew didn’t help,” he explained.
