'As a player, I can't force any franchise to pick me,' - Ahmed Shahzad

Pakistan batter Ahmad Shahzad is hopeful that he will not only be selected in the players' draft but will also perform in the upcoming HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) season eight, which will take place in February-March of next year.

Quetta Gladiators are most likely to pick Shahzad, who missed the HBL PSL season seven due to an injury.

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"I am in talks with a couple of franchises. As a player, I can't force anyone to pick me, but if a player brings value to the team, they should go for him," shared Shahzad. "See, PSL is Pakistan's biggest brand, and every player wants to play in it. In fact, PSL's performance matters a lot, and it is very important for players to make a comeback," he added. 

The right-handed opener has scored 1077 runs at an average of 26.26 in 45 PSL appearances.

Shahzad is also the first Pakistan batter to hit a century in all three versions of the game and is sure that his current achievement will enable him to return to the national squad. 

"I don't think there is any problem with my performance. Yes, due to injury, I was out of cricket action for some time, but then I returned to domestic cricket, played in a couple of leagues, and you can see my performances," confident Shahzad highlighted. 

"I am focused on myself, taking care of my fitness, health, and diet. My aim is to represent my country again with pride," he maintained. 

Once a permanent national squad member, Shahzad's career declined because of alleged attitude and behaviour issues.

"I haven't heard such things, to be honest," Shahzad stated when asked about this issue. "If someone has to say something about my behaviour, and if it's authentic, then come out and say it in public. Otherwise, anybody can allege you for anything. How many people would you believe?" he asked. 

"I can also talk about anyone's attitude. Would you start believing me? I think what people say doesn't matter. I believe whatever Allah has written for you will happen," he concluded.