KARACHI: From the serene valleys of Swat to the high-octane atmosphere of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), fast bowler Fawad Ali is living his dream—made possible by the Karachi Kings’ Talent Hunt Programme, which first identified his raw potential in 2023.
Fawad made his PSL debut on 12 April against Multan Sultans and described the experience as one filled with immense joy.
“My debut was against Multan Sultans, and I was thrilled. Sharing the field with experienced players like our captain, David Warner, felt almost unreal,” he told the media.
“Hasoo [Hasan Ali] was positioned at mid-on while I was bowling. He kept advising me throughout my spell, what to bowl and how to bowl it. I followed his instructions exactly, and it made a huge difference.”
Support of senior teammates
Despite the pressure of performing in front of a large crowd for the first time, Fawad said he managed to stay calm, crediting the support of senior teammates.
“I used to play a lot of tape-ball cricket, so the crowd and the big stage didn’t really faze me. Also, having experienced players around offering support and guidance made everything feel under control,” he explained.
Fawad’s journey is a testament to talent meeting opportunity. Growing up in an area with limited access to formal cricketing infrastructure, he still recalls the significance of the Karachi Kings conducting trials in his hometown.
Holding trials in Swat
“It was a fantastic moment when Karachi Kings held trials in our region. We don’t have much structured cricket in Swat, so when they came, it felt like something truly special. I participated in the trials and, Alhamdulillah, I came out on top,” he shared.
Initially included in the HBL PSL 9 squad as a replacement for Tim Seifert, Fawad was later officially selected in the Emerging Category for PSL 10, having developed his skills at the Karachi Kings Academy under the guidance of professional coaches.
“My aim this season is to give my best performance in the PSL and, Insha’Allah, earn the chance to represent Pakistan in the future,” he concluded.
