Pakistan-born Usman Khan wants to perform against the Men in Green

Usman Khan, a Pakistan-born cricketer, has set his sights on playing against his country of birth and excelling on the international stage. The 28-year-old opener gained significant attention earlier this year, when he achieved the fastest century in the history of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), while representing the Multan Sultans against the Quetta Gladiators.

Usman's impressive 36-ball century sparked discussions and speculation that he might receive a call-up to represent Pakistan. However, he has revealed that his ultimate dream is not to play for Pakistan but to play for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where he currently resides. He is determined to work hard and earn a place in the UAE national team, with the hope of eventually facing Pakistan and showcasing his talent against his country of birth.

 “My dream is not to play for Pakistan. My dream is to play for UAE. I am working hard to do that. One day I want to play against Pakistan to show them my talent. I am waiting for my time,” Usman told The National.

The possibility of Usman's eligibility for selection in the UAE team is based on the International Cricket Council's (ICC) three-year residency criteria. Despite having spent considerable time playing in competitions such as the Pakistan Super League and the Bangladesh Premier League outside of Pakistan, it is hoped that he will fulfill the requirements and be eligible for selection later this year.

Usman expressed his reasons for seeking opportunities outside of Pakistan, stating that he felt overlooked and not given a chance to prove himself. This motivated him to pursue cricket in the UAE, where he has been working hard to hone his skills and improve his game.

“In Pakistan I felt like nobody was looking to me and I wasn’t getting a chance, so I wanted to go somewhere else for an opportunity. I came to UAE and have worked hard. I just want to work hard and then try to make the UAE team once I am eligible,” he said.