Don’t compare me with Steve Smith: Shadab Khan

Islamabad United captain Shadab Khan has said that it is unfair to compare him with Australian cricketer Steve Smith, after his sparkling performances with the bat during the ongoing Habib Bank Limited (HBL) Pakistan Super League (PSL).

While speaking to media after his side’s defeat at the hands of Karachi Kings in HBL PSL on Saturday, Shadab said that he wanted to prove himself as an all-rounder.

“Always wanted to prove myself as an all-rounder but it is unfair to compare me with Steve Smith because he is a legendary cricketer,” said Shadab. “I’m a bowling all-rounder but whichever number is given to me I try to perform with the bat as well.”

Shadab scored 263 runs at an average of 37.6 and strike rate of 159.4 in eight innings of HBL PSL 5. He also bagged eight wickets during the tournament.

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Karachi Kings became the second team in the HBL PSL 2020 to secure a semi-final berth with a four-wicket win over Islamabad United at Karachi’s National Stadium.

With this defeat, Islamabad United, the two-time champions, are knocked out of the tournament.

“We have twice won the tournament but unfortunately could not perform well this year,” he said. “We have learned a lot this season and will come back stronger next year.”