Gillespie Advocates for Irfan Khan’s Global T20 Inclusion

Former Pakistan head coach Jason Gillespie has once again lauded the talents of young batter Muhammad Irfan Khan, urging T20 franchises worldwide to consider signing him.

Gillespie characterized the 22-year-old as a “quality player and outstanding person,” predicting a sustained international career with Pakistan.

“He is poised to be a long-term asset for Pakistan. The T20 leagues will undoubtedly come calling. I wholeheartedly recommend him to any franchise or team,” Gillespie affirmed.

Despite Pakistan Shaheens’ elimination in the semifinals against eventual champions Perth Scorchers Academy, Irfan demonstrated his batting consistency.

Across six innings, he amassed 127 runs at an average of 24, frequently delivering under pressure. His strike rate of 130.90 stood out as one of the highest in the competition, highlighting his aggressive style.

This isn’t the first instance of Gillespie championing Irfan Khan’s potential. He previously voiced disapproval of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for omitting the youngster from the Champions Trophy squad, despite his burgeoning reputation.

“Irfan Khan Niazi is among the most powerful hitters and cleanest strikers of the ball in Pakistan. Furthermore, he excels as a fielder nationwide. His exclusion from the Champions Trophy is incomprehensible,” Gillespie commented.

In the Top End T20 Series semifinal, the Scorchers defeated Pakistan Shaheens by 48 runs. The Scorchers, batting first, reached 155-8 in 20 overs, buoyed by Nicholas Hobson’s 59 from 43 deliveries and Teague Wyllie’s 29 from 16.

In response, the Shaheens struggled, getting bowled out for 107 in 17.1 overs.

Khawaja Nafay (26), Mohammad Wasim Jr. (25), and captain Irfan Khan Niazi (17) made minimal contributions, as Yasir Khan, Saad Masood, and Mehran Mumtaz were dismissed without scoring.