LAHORE: Fast bowler Nahid Rana expressed his joy at finally making his mark in the Pakistan Super League after missing out last year. His performances in PSL 11 proved crucial for Peshawar Zalmi, adding pace and penetration to their bowling attack in the closing stages of the tournament.
Commenting on his journey, Rana said: “I really enjoy it. Last year I came but I didn’t play. This year I came and I really enjoyed it. I just tried to execute my plan and give an impactful performance to help my team. I executed my performance well, so I’m happy.”
Rana’s ability to bowl with pace and accuracy under pressure was highlighted in the final, where his spells helped Zalmi regain control against Hyderabad Kingsmen’s aggressive start. His return to the squad after national duty added depth to Zalmi’s bowling unit, complementing the spin of Sufyan Moqim and the all-round contributions of Aaron Hardie.
Abdul Samad embraces finisher’s role with ZalmiPeshawar Zalmi’s Abdul Samad reflected on his evolving role as a finisher, expressing satisfaction at contributing in crunch moments during PSL 11 despite limited batting opportunities earlier in the season.
Samad explained: “I’m really enjoying it. As a finisher, that’s my job in the team. The management has given me this role. Today after quite some time, I got the opportunity because I wasn’t getting much of a chance to bat earlier. I was trying to make sure that whenever I got the chance, I should finish the game for my team. Unfortunately, I got out on 48, but it still felt very good, Alhamdulillah.”
He highlighted the mental preparation required to stay ready when top-order batters were dominating: “Players like Kusal Mendis and Babar were scoring most of the runs in the tournament. I had to keep myself mentally ready for crunch moments. When I came in, four wickets had already fallen. I was confident, and I told Musaddiq Bhai that I would go in. He told me to think about it, but I said I’ll go and do it.”
Samad also commented on his journey with Zalmi: “It has been great. This is my second year; the first one was also very good, and this year has been even better. We have won so it feels really good.”
Ali Raza grateful for support in breakthrough seasonYoung fast bowler Ali Raza credited his hard work, rehabilitation support, and guidance from senior players for his strong performances in PSL 11, describing the journey as both challenging and rewarding.
Reflecting on his overall campaign, Ali said: “Alhamdulillah, it’s all because of my hard work. I also give a lot of credit to the PCB for the way they handled my rehab. The doctors and staff at the PCA supported me really well, worked with me quickly, and gave me confidence.”
He emphasized the role of mentors and senior bowlers in his development: “The bowling coaches have helped me a lot. I’ve also been working with Azhar Bhai and Akram Bhai, which feels really good. I especially want to give credit to Amir Bhai and Haris Bhai. I talked to them during the tournament. Mohammad Asif also gave me a special tip, and Muhammad Zahid supported me as well. They all backed me and said they enjoyed my bowling, noting it’s a good sign for Pakistan.”
Ali highlighted the importance of belief and persistence in his journey: “When such legends support and appreciate you, it makes things much easier and gives you a lot of confidence. The key is to believe in your hard work and keep at it. Inshallah, things will keep getting better.”
