Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen has shared an important update on the future of right-arm pacer Ihsanullah, revealing that the pacer is focused on making a strong return to the Pakistan Super League (PSL) next year.
Ihsanullah became a sensation during the PSL 2023, where he claimed an impressive 22 wickets for the Sultans. However, his rise was halted by an elbow injury he sustained during Pakistan's home ODI series against New Zealand in April 2023, causing him to miss the PSL the following year.
The pacer returned to competitive cricket later in 2024 during the Champions T20 Cup, where he took two wickets in four matches. Despite his efforts, he went unsold in the PSL 10 draft earlier this year, leading to his brief announcement of retirement from the league. However, just one day later, he reversed his decision.
In a recent podcast, Ali Tareen revealed that he had met with Ihsanullah at a net session. He shared that the emerging bowler has plans to return to the PSL next season, with his focus now on playing a full domestic season to regain full fitness.
"Ihsanullah's plan is to play a full domestic season and make a comeback next year in the PSL," Tareen said.
"Recently, I met him during a nets session, and he is bowling well. He will go back to full fitness and will play a season of domestic cricket," he added.
Earlier this year, Tareen had made headlines by revealing a serious concern about Ihsanullah's injury.
"It is a very sad development, but we got Ihsanullah consulted with a top surgeon, who gave us a really bad news, saying that 'guys, I can do the surgery but no matter what I do, there is so much scarring from his previously botched surgery that his arm will never become perfectly straight and he will never be able to bowl in the same way because he does not have a straight arm.' So, it is so unfortunate that one person ruined a player's career to hide his mistake," said Tareen.
"That's why even now, he was bowling in domestic at 130-135, which is a high pace, but he was our 155 [kmph] bowler," he added.
However, Ihsanullah quickly responded to these claims, assuring fans that his speed remains unaffected. Speaking to a local sports news platform, he confidently stated that reaching the 150 kmph mark is no longer a challenge for him.
"I am bowling at 142 kmph, [bowling at] 150 kmph is no big deal for me," said Ihsanullah.
"Whether my elbow is straight or bends, it does not matter. If you have the determination, you can bowl at 150. I'll comfortably reach 150, and bowling beyond that is nothing for me. In a month, I'll consistently bowl at 150. I'll do it and make others watch in awe. Currently, the speed guns are showing 5 kmph less. So, you can say that I'm bowling at 147," he further responded.
Full-match Urdu commentary in HBL PSL
The Pakistan Cricket Board is pleased to announce that for the first time in HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) history, fans will be able to enjoy full-match Urdu commentary throughout the tournament. The HBL PSL X is all set to take place in four cities – Lahore, Karachi, Multan and Rawalpindi from 11 April to 18 May.
Fans can now choose to tune into live broadcasts in Urdu, allowing them to experience the action and excitement of the league matches in Pakistan's national language. This step is set to deepen engagement with millions of cricket fans and enhance their experience.
HBL PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer:
"This is a landmark moment for the HBL PSL and its ever-growing fanbase. Cricket is a unifying force in Pakistan and by offering commentary in Urdu for a full game, we are bringing the excitement and energy of the HBL PSL closer to the hearts of fans in every corner of the country.
"The introduction of the separate Urdu commentary feed is something that has been eagerly anticipated and we are excited to deliver it. This move not only strengthens our connection with the community but also ensures that the excitement of HBL PSL is more accessible to a wider audience."
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