Abbas Addresses Doubts and Reveals Personal Challenges

LAHORE: Veteran Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Abbas has voiced his concerns regarding public perceptions of his on-field showings, noting that many people create opinions without acknowledging his strong statistical record.

In an open discussion prior to his journey to England for the next stage of the County Championship 2025, Abbas tackled misconceptions about his skills and shed light on the personal hardships he has experienced lately.

“People develop opinions without considering my stats. What is expressed on social media alongside my statistics fuels me—they encourage me to stay engaged and excel,” Abbas stated.

Abbas, a long-standing figure in county cricket, is currently playing for Nottinghamshire. This season is his first with the team, following four successful years with Hampshire.

“After being with Hampshire for four years, my opening season with Nottinghamshire is progressing well. I have secured 16 wickets in only three games, and with my contract extension, I am set to participate in seven more matches this season,” he mentioned.

Reflecting on a challenging phase in his life, the 34-year-old disclosed that he declined various offers from other county teams due to a personal loss.

“I received proposals from other county teams and engaged in conversations with them, but during that period, I tragically lost two younger siblings within a couple of months. It was an incredibly tough time for both me and my family,” Abbas shared, showing clear emotion.

“Now, my complete focus is on cricket, and I’ve established an ambitious target for myself this season.”

Responding to criticism that his success is limited to English conditions, Abbas defended his domestic performances in Pakistan.

“They claim I only succeed in England, but I urge them to examine the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy—held in Pakistan. Since 2014, my bowling average in the competition stands at 16, which is the best nationwide,” he asserted.

“Among active fast bowlers worldwide with a minimum of 600 wickets, I lead the list in terms of bowling average. I am also approaching 800 first-class wickets and currently hold the third position for the most ten-wicket match hauls.”

Abbas also expressed his disappointment at not receiving more opportunities on the international stage, particularly in Test cricket.

“I am of the opinion that I should have participated in more Test matches for Pakistan. At times, unfavorable remarks affect me, but I use them as motivation to improve and perform at my highest level.”

He concluded by urging the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to prioritise and invest in first-class cricket, highlighting the necessity for enhanced scheduling at the international level.

“The PCB should prioritise first-class cricket. Furthermore, Pakistan has limited opportunities to play Test matches. I am requesting the ICC to arrange additional Test fixtures for Pakistan so that players like myself can continue to make significant contributions to the game’s longest format,” he added.

Notably, the right-arm pacer has consistently been a leading force in Pakistan’s first-class cricket, achieving a record of 791 wickets in 195 matches with an impressive average of 20.58 and an economy rate of 2.62.

His best career stats are 8 for 46, and he has achieved 49 five-wicket hauls.

Internationally, he has represented Pakistan in 27 Test matches, securing 100 wickets at an economy rate of 2.50, which includes five five-wicket hauls.