Khurram Shahzad Aims for White-Ball Cricket After Worcestershire Signing

Pakistani speedster Khurram Shahzad is optimistic that his consistent displays in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and the ongoing T20 Blast in England will increase his chances of representing Pakistan in white-ball cricket.

The 25-year-old, originally from Mandi Bahauddin, has played in six Test matches for Pakistan since his international debut against Australia in December 2023.

Recently, Worcestershire County Cricket Club signed him for the second half of the season to participate in the T20 Blast and the County Championship.

“I firmly believe that I will get the chance to play white-ball cricket for Pakistan, alongside red-ball cricket. I’ve been participating in the Pakistan Super League for the last five years, and I performed well in the recent season,” Khurram stated at New Road, Worcester.

“This opportunity to perform as an overseas player in the T20 Blast is significant for me. It’s a great tournament, and I’m striving to perform well here, hoping to impress the national selectors and represent Pakistan in both T20 and ODI formats. I am confident that this will happen,” he added.

While Khurram has only played red-ball cricket for Pakistan so far, he has been involved in the PSL for the past four seasons — initially with Quetta Gladiators and later with Peshawar Zalmi. However, he had limited playing time during those seasons.

In the most recent PSL season, he rejoined Quetta Gladiators and played a vital role, taking 12 wickets in eight matches and helping the team reach the final.

His recent form across formats, along with a strong recommendation from former Pakistan captain Azhar Ali, who also played for Worcestershire, convinced the county side to sign him.

“This year, I returned to Quetta Gladiators, where I spearheaded the bowling attack with Mohammad Amir. I enjoyed bowling with him, and we formed a great partnership. We won several matches but lost in the final. Now with Worcestershire, I aim to give my best effort to perform well and contribute to the team’s success. I’m thankful to the Worcestershire management for their trust in me,” he said.

Khurram is also pleased to be reconnecting with fellow Pakistani pacer Hasan Ali, who is currently playing for Warwickshire in the T20 Blast.

“Hasan Ali is also playing here, but we’ve only managed to meet briefly after a match since my arrival. I was excited to see him, and we discussed his experience here. I’m thankful to him for his time; he provided helpful advice and explained aspects of the conditions here. He’s quite funny and I learn a lot from him,” he shared.

The young bowler also expressed his admiration for South African fast bowling legend Dale Steyn, who has significantly influenced his bowling style. Khurram is often called the “Pakistani Dale Steyn” due to similarities in their actions.

“My bowling action is natural, but my run-up and action are quite similar to Dale Steyn. He’s my idol, so I try to emulate his style. He’s a legendary cricketer and was the world’s top bowler for many years, dominating all formats. I enjoy watching his videos and studying them to learn from him,” he stated.

This stint in England also provides Khurram with the opportunity to further refine his skills and follow in the footsteps of Pakistan’s iconic fast bowlers.

Despite initially falling ill due to the weather change, he has now adjusted and is enjoying county cricket.

“I’m very excited to be playing county cricket. I’ve heard from Pakistan’s legendary cricketers that it’s essential for learning. I’ve played a few matches in the Blast, and I’m enjoying the grounds, the fans, the atmosphere, and the weather here.

“When I was in Pakistan, the temperature was around 45°C. But when I arrived here, it was cloudy and rainy. While we were in Leeds, it felt like winter. Due to the sudden weather change, I caught a cold and a sore throat. But overall, the weather is ideal for cricket, and as a fast bowler, I’m enjoying the conditions,” he concluded.