Agha relishes HBL PSL freedom
Salman Ali Agha has started enjoying his participation in the PSL as a regular player. In an exclusive interview with Express Tribune, he said that the extra responsibility that comes with being a captain is absent in the PSL. In such a situation, you get the opportunity to do many things that you cannot do as a captain, and he is enjoying this.
Speaking about Karachi Kings captain David Warner, Salman Ali Agha said that he has performed exceptionally well in international as well as franchise cricket. "He is a legend, and I am getting the opportunity to learn a lot from him," he added.
He said that Karachi Kings quickly formed a good combination in the tournament, which is very important for any team. "We have been performing well since the very first match, and we will try to maintain this momentum."
In response to a question, he said that during the thrilling match against Lahore Qalandars, he never felt that they would fail to chase the target. "We have a strong batting line-up with firepower, which is why we managed to win the match."
Talking about his own performance, Salman Ali Agha said that he got off to a good start in the first PSL match but could not convert it into a big innings. "The tournament is still in its early stages. My form is good, but I haven't been able to play a big innings yet. I will try to perform better in the upcoming matches."
He added that as a national team captain, whenever matches are being played, one naturally keeps an eye on the performances of other players. Whenever he watches PSL matches, whether it is a bowler or a batter, good performances and player behavior always catch his attention.
Batting at Number Three
Salman Ali Agha said that he has enjoyed batting in the middle and lower order as well. However, batting at number three provides a greater opportunity to play aggressively during the powerplay. He likes to play fast-paced cricket, so he is happy with this position.
He further said that he does not think of himself strictly as an all-rounder. His approach is that when he is bowling, he considers himself a regular bowler, and when he is batting, he considers himself a batter. While bowling, his aim is to take wickets for the team and maintain a good economy rate.
Experience with Islamabad United and Karachi Kings
Salman Ali Agha said that his two-year journey with Islamabad United was very good, and he enjoyed it a lot. It is such a team that any player who leaves it feels its absence, and he also misses that environment.
When he joined Karachi Kings, he wondered whether he would find a similar environment. Although he has spent only a few days with the new team, the time has been very good. Everyone is friendly, and since they have won their initial matches, the atmosphere has become even better. So far, everything has been going well for him there.
Addition of New Teams
in HBL PSL
Salman Ali Agha said that the inclusion of two new teams in the PSL is a welcome development. It will increase competition, and this edition is different from previous ones because of the new teams. This new challenge is very exciting for everyone.
In response to a question, he said that it is too early to name the strongest or favorite teams, as franchises are still trying to build their combinations. However, on paper, all teams look quite strong, and he expects very exciting contests this season.
Importance of Crowd in Stadiums
Salman Ali Agha said that the presence of spectators in stadiums is very important, and they are missing the crowd. "Just imagine how exciting a Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars match would have been with a full crowd." The presence of fans motivates players to perform better. He hopes that spectators will be allowed later in the tournament so people can enjoy the matches.
Love for Test Cricket
Salman Ali Agha said that he loves Test cricket, and for him, nothing is greater than it. It is the format where true skills are expressed. "I would give up anything for it. Red-ball cricket will always be number one for me."
He added that after the PSL, the Pakistani team will tour Bangladesh, and he is very excited about that series.
Learning from the World Cup
He said that failure also has great importance in life and teaches a lot. It reveals things that you might not have noticed before. From the recent T20 World Cup, he learned a lot both as a captain and as a player. He believes that in future similar situations, he will be able to make better decisions as both captain and batter.
Views on Social Media
Salman Ali Agha said that in this regard, he is quite a "boring" person because he does not like social media. He does not even have such apps on his phone. He believes that social media can sometimes distract you.
Reaction to Bangladesh Incident
Speaking about his strong reaction after a controversial run-out in Bangladesh, Salman Ali Agha said that he usually does not get very angry, but when he does, it becomes visible.
He admitted that he is not proud of his reaction, but the match situation at that time was such that he and Mohammad Rizwan were batting well, and if they had stayed for another 56 overs, they could have taken the match away from the opposition.
"That's why I got angry," he said, adding that he will try not to express his anger in that manner if a similar situation arises in the future.