LAHORE: New Zealand all-rounder Daryl Mitchell has praised the standard of cricket in the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) and shared his positive experiences of playing in Pakistan.
Mitchell highlighted both the competitive nature of the tournament and the warmth of the local people. Mitchell described the PSL as a unique challenge for overseas players, particularly because of Pakistan’s renowned fast-bowling talent.
“Pakistan have got some of the best fast bowlers going around the world. So it’s a great experience in these conditions to be playing and facing that,” he said. He noted that conditions in Pakistan vary from fast and bouncy pitches to slower, turning tracks, making adaptability a key skill for cricketers.
Mitchell emphasized the hospitality he has received. “The people have been really welcoming and I’m really enjoying my time here,” he remarked, adding that his first PSL stint in Lahore was memorable, especially as his team lifted the trophy.
Now representing the Rawalpindi Pindiz, Mitchell said he is enjoying the new franchise environment and is slowly picking up local sayings, though teammate Sam Billings is ahead of him in learning the dialect.
Mitchell also shared lighter moments from his PSL journey, recalling golf sessions in Multan during his previous season. He brought his clubs again this year and hopes to play golf and paddle once the schedule allows.
One of Mitchell’s strongest impressions has been the constant emergence of new fast-bowling talent in Pakistan. “There’s a new bowler that seems to pop up every tournament… it’s incredible to see,” he said, crediting Pakistan’s tape-ball culture for producing raw pace.
He added that overseas players have a role to play in sharing experiences with young bowlers to help elevate their game further. Mitchell stressed the importance of bonding with teammates and gradually having deeper cricketing conversations as the tournament progresses. He believes several players will make their mark this season, and he is excited to see their development.
Commenting on his past PSL success, Mitchell said watching Lahore lift the trophy last year was special, even though he missed the final stages. Now with Rawalpindi, he hopes to help his side “get off the mark and get on a roll” in the competition.
