ISLAMABAD: Former fast bowler Waqar Younis said that Naseem Shah had several chances in international matches but couldn’t make use of them.
Waqar, who was in Dubai for the ILT20, mentioned that in his opinion, this tournament is a great chance for Naseem to not only regain his form but also make a selection panel notice him.
Naseem Shah after only one match in the Triangular Series is now representing the Desert Vipers in the UAEs ILT20.
Considering Naseem’s circumstances, Waqar Younis recognized that all players endure phases of declining form. He noted that if a bowler fails to deliver performance they might be excluded from the national squad. Nonetheless he emphasized that the ILT20 provides Naseem with an opportunity to display his talent and attract the notice of selectors, potentially paving the way for his comeback to the national squad.
“Players delivering performances in any league consistently catch the attention of selectors,” Waqar clarified. “This is Naseem Shah’s opportunity to return. If he excels, it might secure his place back in the Pakistan squad.”
Waqar likewise mentioned the feats of the Aussie pacer, Mitchell Starc, who not long ago broke the record of Wasim Akram’s for the most ODI wickets, by a left-arm bowler. Seeing such a magnificent record of Starc, Waqar went on to say that it is very difficult to put the two players on the same level.
“Mitchell Starc, 35 continues to compete at an elite level and I think he can keep going for another two or three seasons ” Waqar stated. “Once he decides to retire, he will be remembered as one of the left-arm fast bowlers. Wasim Akram was also a bowler but each has distinct attributes making a head-, to-head comparison unfeasible.”
Waqar also commended the ILT20, emphasizing its surge in popularity since it began. He observed that the league had drawn interest from both fans and players with numerous individuals keenly awaiting its games. “The league’s popularity was clear, from the opening ceremony and has consistently increased ” he stated.
He additionally conveyed optimism about ILT20’s prospects, mentioning that although leagues require time to settle ILT20 had achieved progress within only four years. He highlighted that nations such, as Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have demonstrated enthusiasm to participate in the league and he anticipates countries to join in the upcoming years, thereby broadening the tournament’s presence and impact throughout the region.
“With more countries joining, I’m sure the ILT20 will continue to grow and become a major fixture in international cricket,” Waqar added.
