A 21-year-old fast bowler who was playing tape-ball cricket in a Punjab town three years ago has signed a marquee county contract, one of the most significant overseas moves for a Pakistani quick in recent seasons.
A rapid rise
Scouts first flagged his raw pace at a domestic tournament, where he consistently troubled established batters with steepling bounce and a wickedly late outswinger.
He has something you cannot coach: the ball hurries onto the batter even when the pitch is flat.
The county deal offers exposure to red-ball cricket in demanding conditions, exactly the finishing school his mentors believe he needs.
- A full county season of four-day cricket.
- Access to world-class strength and conditioning support.
- Mentorship from a former international new-ball bowler.
If the move pays off, selectors will be watching closely. For now, the bowler says his only goal is to stay fit and let the wickets do the talking.
