BACK WITH A BANG: Abdul Razzaq, known for his belligerent hitting, says he will prove his fitness through his performances in the domestic tournaments and also in the upcoming T10 Cricket League to find his way into PSL4 squads as a player. PHOTO: AFP
KARACHI: Former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq, who announced his retirement earlier this year after sitting out of the national team for a long period, believes he can still convince Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises to pick him in their squad for the fourth edition.
Razzaq, known for his belligerent hitting and accurate bowling, says he will prove his fitness through his performances in the domestic tournaments and also in the upcoming T10 Cricket League.
“I wanted to play in the PSL, but I guess the time for that has passed now,” he said while talking to Express Sports in an exclusive video interview. “But I’m playing in T10 and will also be participating in domestic ODI tournament. If I am able to perform and prove my fitness, then I am hopeful of participating in the next PSL as a player.”
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When asked if his talent was wasted, Razzaq said: “I used to play cricket regularly. But I was being pushed in and out of the team, and it becomes difficult for a player to be mentally stable then. I came back in the team between 2009 and 2010 and then was pushed out. This continued for nearly four years. I think I was in my prime in 2007 and I was wasted for the next few years.”
The 38-year-old also commented on former Pakistan coach Waqar Younis’s philosophy of replacing seniors with young players.
“Waqar wanted to bring young players in the team to replace seniors. Every coach has his own methods. I think he was wrong. This shouldn’t happen. If he would’ve taken me with him, that would’ve prolonged my career,” he said.
When asked if it will be justified to say that Pakistan haven’t been able to produce all-rounder of his and Shahid Afridi’s quality, Razzaq said: “There is no doubt that no one was able to fill our place in the team.”
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However, he continued by saying that PSL has presented hope. “I am hopeful someone will show up in the future as a great all-rounder. We have PSL happening now and a lot of young talent is showing up. I am sure we’ll find good all-rounders, pacers and batsmen from it.”
On coaching
Razzaq is currently working with two-time PSL finalists Quetta Gladiators as a bowling coach and believes every player should take up that role later in his career.
“Every cricketer faces such a time when he has to start coaching,” he said. “I’ve been playing T20 cricket in Norway, Spain and Germany. However, I’m more focused on coaching now.”
Razzaq, who has done a level two coaching course during his stay in England, believes one doesn’t need certifications in the current age to educate players but did admit that they can come in handy.
“I’ve done level two coaching course from England, but I don’t think there is any set criteria for being a coach. Waqar Younis, Wasim Akram, Moin Khan and many others are coaching [without any certification]. But the courses are helpful. They educate you about the tricks of the trade.”
On T10 league
Razzaq endorsed the upcoming T10 Cricket League, set to take place in the UAE, to raise the level of excitement with a shorter format.
“It is a new thing. I am guessing there is going to be a lot of excitement since a lot of big names will be participating in it. Shahid Afridi is also playing in the event and is the brand ambassador too, so I believe it will be a big hit,” he said.
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