Shehzad has insisted that playing Test and one-day cricket for Pakistan is his life’s biggest desire. PHOTO: AFP
Shehzad, unbeaten on 37 in a faltering HBL innings against SNGPL in the President’s Trophy final, is carrying his team’s hopes of putting on a decent total. SNGPL were earlier dismissed for 283 at the National Stadium and Mohammad Hafeez picked up three wickets for just nine runs from his 12 overs to reduce the star-studded HBL batting line-up to bits.
Shehzad, who has impressed in the T20 format recently, feels that his motivation has never been to restrict himself to the shortest format of the game because of its higher financial benefits.
“I’m keen on playing Tests and ODIs instead of becoming a hit in just the T20 format,” Shehzad told The Express Tribune. “Throughout the season, I’ve taken guidance from Younus, who has vast experience.”
Shehzad said that he desperately wants to make his Test debut, adding that it is his life’s desire and wants to ensure that he learns the finer points of Test cricket before he gets there. Shehzad also revealed that fame and money has never been his priority and the feeling of representing the country is irreplaceable.
“I’m doing extra training sessions after returning from India and have lost six kg to get fitter because I want to contribute in the field when needed.”
Despite their poor position in the match, Shehzad feels that the situation is tailor-made to play a top knock.
“I’d try to help my side achieve the best possible total with the help of the remaining lower-order players.”
Earlier, SNGPL were helped by skipper Misbahul Haq’s 85-run knock and Ali Waqas’ 83 to reach a decent total as quickie Fahad Masood grabbed a five-wicket haul while Abdur Rehman took two wickets.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 16th, 2013.
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