“I have faith in my hard work and I believe in myself,” Sajjad told The Express Tribune. “I grew up hearing that once you top the domestic season, you find a place in the national side. Therefore, I know I am not far-off from representing my country.”
Sajjad, two seasons ago, made first-class history by putting on a world record second-wicket partnership of 580 with Rafatullah Mohmand for his department Wapda against Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) at the Sheikhupura Stadium. Sajjad slammed his career-best score of 289 off 373 balls in his 77-match first-class career.
“My record breaking partnership with Mohmand has been the highlight of my career. It helped get me noticed. Playing for the national side is a dream for every cricketer but in my case it’s a goal as I have spent a significant time in cricket and I did what needs to be done to find a place in the national side.”
Sajjad, despite last season’s leading scorer with 1435 runs at 86.36 from 14 matches, never expressed his disappointment after been omitted from Pakistan’s tour of England in the summer. “It is all up to the selectors and I am very optimistic about my chances,” said Sajjad before adding that chief selector Mohsin Khan has assured him of a chance. “He urged me to keep up the good work and promised me an opportunity. He also told me to maintain good discipline and fitness needed for international cricket.”
The batsman – who has also represented Pakistan ‘A’ – was eyeing Pakistan’s series against South Africa in the UAE, especially the Test matches and remained disappointed at being overlooked yet again.
“I piled on the runs in the longer format which is why I am desperate to play Test cricket. I think I’m made for that.”
Published in The Express Tribune, November 30th, 2010.
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