COLOMBO: Pakistan’s right-arm fast bowler Zaman Khan has expressed his excitement to play the Super 4 Asia Cup match against Sri Lanka, saying that he never thought he would be participating in such a mega event.
Zaman earned his spot in the Asia Cup squad as a replacement for Naseem Shah, who suffered a right shoulder injury during a match against India. Additionally, star pacer Haris Rauf sustained an injury in the same match and was unable to bowl during the reserve day when play resumed. In response to these unfortunate injuries, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) took the precautionary step of calling up Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan as backup players.
At the age of 22, Zaman has already made a name for himself in Pakistani cricket, thanks to his outstanding performances for the Lahore Qalandars, who were crowned champions in this year’s Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Reflecting on his inclusion in the team, Zaman expressed his elation, saying, “I never anticipated being included in the squad. It is a tremendous honour for me to represent Pakistan in the Asia Cup.” The right-handed fast bowler also revealed his recent debut in T20 cricket and expressed his joy at reuniting with his fellow players after a considerable break.
Zaman sought guidance from experienced players like Haris Rauf and Shaheen Shah Afridi, who have extensive match experience, on how to adapt to the pitch conditions in Sri Lanka. He also inquired about the playing conditions in Sri Lanka and hoped for a strong performance from the Green Shirts.
Pakistan is set to face Sri Lanka in the final Super 4 clash today (Thursday) in Colombo. The victorious team in this match will secure a place in the final, which is scheduled to take place on Sunday at the same venue against arch-rivals India.
Pakistan made significant changes to their lineup following their loss to India, with Mohammad Haris, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim, and Zaman Khan being included in the playing XI.
Pakistan XI: Mohammad Haris, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan (wkt), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan (vice-capt), Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Wasim, Zaman Khan.
