We’re proud to have Rishad in the PSL: Shoaib
Agency :
Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain is turning heads in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), impressing fans and cricket pundits alike with his stellar performance for Lahore Qalandars.
The 21-year-old has already claimed eight wickets in just three matches, placing him joint-third among the season’s top wicket-takers so far.
Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik, currently playing alongside Rishad in the PSL, heaped praise on the young spinner, calling him a “great talent” for Bangladesh cricket.
“We’re proud to have Rishad in the PSL. He’s bowling really well. I’ve seen him perform in international cricket too, and he’s a fantastic talent. If he stays on the right track, he’ll gain a lot of confidence and experience from this league and will keep improving,” Malik said in an interview.
Initially, Lahore Qalandars had signed Afghanistan superstar Rashid Khan, but with Rashid opting to play in the IPL, Rishad was brought in as a replacement. Malik believes Rishad has filled Rashid’s shoes admirably.
“It’s too early to compare, of course. Rashid is vastly experienced and a proven performer globally. But Rishad is doing really well and giving Lahore Qalandars the breakthroughs they need in the middle overs. It’s been a blessing to have him in Rashid’s absence,” Malik added.
The veteran all-rounder also shared his thoughts on Bangladesh pacer Nahid Rana, who is set to join Peshawar Zalmi after making headlines during Bangladesh’s last tour of Pakistan with his express pace.
“I saw him in Rawalpindi-he was very impressive, especially in the Test series against Pakistan. He has serious pace and talent. But fast bowlers need to be managed carefully.
They carry a lot of workload, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board must look after him properly and plan his workload. Both Rishad and Nahid are very promising cricketers. I believe they can achieve a lot for Bangladesh,” Malik concluded.
With the spotlight now on these rising stars, the onus is on the BCB to nurture their development and ensure they fulfill their immense potential on the international stage.