Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid is excited to represent Lahore Qalandars in the upcoming sixth season of Pakistan Super League (PSL), due to begin from February 20 in Karachi.

While speaking to Cricket Pakistan in an exclusive interview, the leg-spinner said he is anticipating a tough challenge in his maiden PSL season.

“I am very happy to be here for my first season of PSL. I have never played PSL before, so it will be big challenge for me to perform here. I am excited to represent Lahore Qalandars and will try to perform as well as I have done in other leagues and international cricket,” said Rashid.

“All my Pathan fans wanted me to play for Peshawar Zalmi, but I am just happy to get a chance to play in PSL, which is the most important thing,” he added.

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Rashid has been overwhelmed by the support from Lahore Qalandars’ fans since he was picked by the franchise in the PSL draft.

“I have been getting a lot of support on social media from the Lahore Qalandars fans since PSL draft. Lahore didn’t do well in the initial seasons of PSL, but still they had a massive fan following. That is very good for the team, as you need fans support when the team is going through a rough time,” he said.

“Qalandars played the PSL final last season, so the team has the momentum, skills and experience to do well in the upcoming season as well,” he added.

The Afghanistan cricket team is scheduled to play 2 Test matches and 3 T20Is against Zimbabwe in Abu Dhabi from March 2 to March 20. If the series goes ahead, Rashid is likely to fly to UAE to join his national team and will only be partially available for Qalandars.

“It is not decided yet as our series against Zimbabwe isn’t confirmed till now due to some visa issues. Some of our players haven’t got the visa yet, so that issue is still going on. Maybe it will be confirmed in four or five days, that for how long I am here,” he concluded.