Farhan powers United’s charge in PSL X

LAHORE: Islamabad United, the reigning champions of HBL PSL IX, are setting the pace in this year’s tournament, leading the points table with 10 points from six matches. The team has won five out of six games, with their only loss coming against Lahore Qalandars at the Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday night.

One of the standout performers for United has been opening batter Sahibzada Farhan, who has made a remarkable impact despite being unpicked in the HBL PSL Player Draft earlier this year. Farhan secured his place in the Islamabad squad after topping the National T20 Cup charts, amassing 605 runs in seven matches with an astonishing strike rate of 189.66 and an average of 121. His impressive form included three centuries and two half-centuries.

Continuing his success in HBL PSL X, the right-handed batter has racked up 245 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 161.18, including a century and a half-century.

Farhan reflected on his journey to Islamabad United and the adjustments he has made to his game. “I had performed well in the National T20, and I knew there were openings in teams. Credit goes to Islamabad United for picking me first,” he said.

Discussing his recent performances, Farhan emphasized his focus on maintaining a high strike rate. “I’ve been performing consistently for four years, and my form has been exceptional in four-day cricket over the last two years. My recent success in One-Day cricket has been crucial, and I’m actively working to enhance my strike rate so that I can deliver even better performances if I get another opportunity to represent my country.”

Regarding the freedom granted to him by United, Farhan expressed appreciation for the team’s trust in his abilities. “The management has given me the liberty to play my natural game. Shadab Khan and Salman Ali Agha offer guidance during nets, but I’m trying to execute shots that have worked for me in previous tournaments,” he shared.

Farhan’s maiden HBL PSL century came against Peshawar Zalmi on April 14 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium—a moment he had long anticipated. “I was confident from the beginning that I could score a century in this tournament. I had set my sights high, and it turned out to be one of my best innings. I’m hoping to replicate that performance again.”

Having previously played for Islamabad United in 2018 and 2019, Farhan feels at home in the squad. “This team isn’t new to me. I’ve played under Shadab’s leadership before, and I know him well as both a captain and a player. I’m thoroughly enjoying my time with United and striving to improve my batting every day.”

Despite their dominant run, Farhan is clear that Islamabad United won’t let complacency creep in. “We’re not going to relax after winning five matches. The tournament is still on, and our focus remains on securing a place in the playoffs.”