Salman seeks red-ball exposure

RAWALPINDI: Salman Mirza, the unexpected hero for Lahore Qalandars in a do-or-die Pakistan Super League (PSL) X match against Peshawar Zalmi, wants to excel in red-ball cricket.

In a post-match media talk Monday morning, Salman said he was keen to play the longer version of the game. “If you want to improve as a bowler, you have to play and perform in red-ball cricket. It is where you learn and go on to improve your stamina. I am even more interested in playing the longer version of the game,” he said.

Salman ripped apart Zalmi’s top-order, shattering Mohammad Haris’ (8) and Max Bryant’s defences on two consecutive deliveries to leave Zalmi in a spot of bother at 35-3. Zalmi never recovered from there on as Man of the Match Mirza picked two more wickets in a fast and furious display of left-arm fast bowling.

Salman was excited to help out Qalandars win the crucial game. “I played my first PSL game in 2021 and then waited for four years to get a second chance. I am thankful to Qalandars for keeping faith in me. I have learned a lot all these years,” he said.

Salman’s pace, backed by accuracy, helped him get wickets. “I think the Rawalpindi Stadium wicket is a supporting one. If you bend your back, try hard, and keep a good line and length, you can make a difference.”

He praised Qalandars’ environment, where he said youngsters get equal opportunities. “Seniors always help youngsters and newcomers when it comes to improving their confidence and technique. I am lucky to be part of the squad,” he said.