Pakistan cricketer, Asif Ali, has hit back at critics who misunderstood his comments about his practice routine.

While talking to media, ahead of his stint with Peshawar Zalmi in PSL 9, Asif clarified that his statement regarding hitting 300 sixes daily was misinterpreted.

"I don't run on petrol to hit 300 sixes daily. I used to practice hitting sixes during the camp in the NCA, but there was a mistake in my statement and also who wrote," Asif said.

Having been sidelined from the Pakistan team for over a year, Asif utilized this time to address his weaknesses. 

"Cricket is the name of pressure, this thing has to be handled well. I have experience of playing with different teams abroad. I have worked on what I lacked, I will try to show them in PSL," he further added.

Optimistic about a national team comeback, Asif acknowledged the importance of performing well in the PSL as a crucial first step.

"I have not lost hope, if I am lucky, I will make a comeback. The first step is to perform well in PSL," Asif said.

Praising Babar Azam's leadership, Asif commended the Zalmi captain for his guidance on and off the field. 

"Babar is captaining the same way he led Pakistan. He tries to guide all the players on the field," he concluded.

PSL 9 is set to kick off from 17th February in Lahore with the first match to be played between Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad United.