PSL

Sikandar Raza predicts Rishad’s bright franchise future

CF Correspondent

4 May 25 16:48:09

Rishad Hossain [L] and Sikandar Raza

In his debut season in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain made an immediate impact by claiming 8 wickets in his first four matches. Although he has missed Lahore Qalandars’ last three games, teammate Sikandar Raza believes Rishad still has plenty to offer in the remaining matches and is confident of his success in future franchise leagues.

Rishad didn’t feature in the opening game but made a memorable debut against Quetta Gladiators, taking 3 wickets for 31 runs. He followed that up with another 3-wicket haul against Karachi Kings, conceding just 26 runs. He picked up 2 wickets against Multan Sultans but went wicketless in his fourth match.

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Speaking to Cricfrenzy, Raza praised the young leg-spinner's character and potential:

“I had seen Rishad before as an opponent and always found him calm. But after he joined our team, I got to know him better. He is a great team man and is enjoying his time with us. He is a good person and a very good cricketer. In Sha Allah, after this PSL, he will be called up to play in more franchise leagues.”

Raza added that he personally welcomed Rishad upon his arrival in Pakistan to help him settle in:

“It was my third time in Pakistan and I wanted to make him feel at home. The captain, team owner, and I went to his room to welcome him. I even spoke in Bangla to make him feel comfortable.”

Meanwhile, another young Bangladeshi, fast bowler Nahid Rana, joined Peshawar Zalmi on April 26 but is yet to make his debut. Despite not playing a game yet, Raza sees huge potential in him and believes he could lead Bangladesh’s pace attack in the future.

“He hasn’t played a match yet but he is a great find for Bangladesh. When senior pacers like Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, and Shoriful Islam were injured, Nahid stepped up well. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him lead the Bangladesh pace unit someday,” said Raza.

With Lahore still in contention for the playoffs and several matches remaining, including a possible final, Raza and team owner Sameen Rana both believe Rishad can play a decisive role as an “X-factor” for the Qalandars.