Hasan Celebrates Five-Wicket Haul After T20I Return

LAHORE: Veteran Pakistani fast bowler Hasan Ali voiced his elation on Wednesday after securing his first-ever five-wicket haul in T20Is, marking a triumphant return to the national squad after a year’s absence.

Hasan’s previous T20I appearance for Pakistan was in May 2024 against Ireland. Subsequently, he sustained an elbow injury during his stint in the County Championship in July of the same year, sidelining him from competitive play.

The right-arm bowler made his way back into professional cricket in the recent Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, where he emerged as the joint-second highest wicket-taker with a total of 17 wickets.

His steady and remarkable showings in the league earned him a spot in the national team for the ongoing T20I series against Bangladesh.

In his first international match in over a year, Hasan quickly made his presence felt, dismissing Bangladeshi openers Parvez Hossain Emon and Tanzid Hasan within his initial two overs.

He continued his impressive performance, claiming two more wickets in his third over by dismissing wicketkeeper Jaker Ali and Tanzim Hasan Sakib. He then completed his maiden T20I five-wicket haul in his final over by getting Shoriful Islam caught at long off.

His achievement played a crucial role in Pakistan bowling out Bangladesh for 164, which led to a convincing 37-run victory in the opening match of the series.

Reflecting on his match-winning contribution, Hasan conveyed that his plan was uncomplicated, focusing on consistently bowling in the correct areas.

He added that securing a five-wicket haul upon his return was beyond his expectations, something he had not yet achieved in the T20 format.

“The strategy was simple; I just concentrated on hitting the right spots. The batsmen deserve credit for setting a good score, which allowed us to implement our bowling plans effectively,” Hasan said.

“What more could I ask for? A successful comeback with a five-wicket haul is truly remarkable.

“T20 cricket greatly favours batsmen, making pace variations vital. I am happy I could use my variations effectively when it mattered most.”

Hasan Ali also expressed his gratitude to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and its medical staff for their assistance during his rehabilitation, which he found challenging and demanding.

“Rehabilitation was tedious, needing total commitment and passion. Facing a possibly career-ending injury made me deeply appreciate the PCB and my physio’s incredible support,” the pacer mentioned.

This victory also marked a positive beginning for Mike Hesson, the newly appointed head coach for Pakistan’s white-ball teams.

Hasan also shared that Hesson instructed the team to adopt a modern and aggressive style of T20 cricket and expressed his hope that the coach would be satisfied with their performance.

“Hesson’s strategy was straightforward: play modern, aggressive T20 cricket. We executed the basics well, and I believe he’s pleased with our performance.”