Hamza wants to be all-format bowler

FAISALABAD: Pakistan Test cricketer and Dolphins’ fast bowler, Mir Hamza, has expressed confidence in his ability to transition smoothly from red-ball to white-ball cricket, crediting his extensive experience in the longer format of the game.

According to Hamza, the knowledge and skills earned in red-ball cricket enable bowlers to adapt seamlessly to white-ball formats, regardless of the conditions. In an exclusive interview with Geo News, Hamza discussed his recent performances, the challenges his team faced, and his personal aspirations for the future.

He expressed satisfaction with his individual form. However, he admitted that the team’s lack of success has been a source of frustration. “I enjoy my performance most when it benefits the team,” Hamza said. “I’ve been in good rhythm, and wickets have been coming my way, but unfortunately, the team has not been able to capitalize on it. Moving forward, my focus is to help the team win the remaining matches.”

The pacer also touched upon the ongoing difficulties teams have been facing while batting in the second innings of the Champions Cup. “I don’t quite understand why there’s trouble batting in the second innings,” Hamza remarked. “It’s not playing out as it usually does. Perhaps the hot weather is affecting players’ ability to perform at their peak in 2nd innings.”

He highlighted the significance of the ongoing Champions Cup, where all eyes are on the players, and he underscored his ambition to make an impact in the tournament. “My aim is to make a mark in the Champions Cup,” Hamza emphasised. “I hope to earn the player of the match award in at least one of the four games. It’s a big tournament, and it’s important to perform well when the stakes are high.”

Looking ahead, Hamza revealed his desire to represent Pakistan in white-ball cricket, building on the success he has already achieved in the red-ball format. He elaborated on how the experience gained from red-ball cricket equips bowlers with the ability to perform in any situation, be it with the new ball or the old ball, under any conditions.

“A bowler with red-ball experience knows how to adapt to different situations and execute the right delivery at the right time,” Hamza explained. “The mental strength developed through bowling in red-ball cricket is invaluable, and it prepares you for all formats of the game.”

Hamza also said that his focus remains on team success rather than individual accolades. He stressed that his approach has always been centred on contributing to the team’s overall victory.

“I don’t play with the mindset of topping the charts or focusing on personal achievements,” Hamza said. “My goal is always to ensure that my team wins. In the Champions Cup, my aim is to help the team win, and if I can secure a man-of-the-match award in one of the games, that would be a bonus.”