Rashid praises ‘world-class’ Babar, Kohli and Williamson

Afghanistan and Lahore Qalandars’ leg-spinner Rashid Khan has shed light on three of the world’s top batsmen, Babar Azam, Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, during an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan.

Rashid, who has made an impressive start to the Abu Dhabi-leg of HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) season six, praised the batting process of the trio. He also opened up on bowling to Babar in the upcoming match against Karachi Kings. 

“Babar is a world-class player but I always assess my strengths first and bowl accordingly. I watch videos of players before the match to find out their weaknesses and utilise that during the match. I will try to bowl at a good line and length, keep things simple and enjoy the match,” said Rashid.

“In my opinion it’s quite difficult [to say who the best is] but no doubt, Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson and Babar Azam are world-class players. These are the kind of players who know their limits and shots. They have a process to start and finish their innings, which is something I really like about them,” he added.

When asked about comparison between Indian Premier League and HBL PSL, he said: “I have only played three of four matches [in PSL] as compared to IPL where I have been playing for five years. When you play in different grounds and in the presence of crowd, I will be in a better position to answer this question as I will have dealt with different kinds of pressure.”

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Rashid who bagged the player of the match award in two of the three matches, since the restart of HBL PSL, also opened up about his bowling strategy.

“I’m really happy that I was able to contribute in two victories for my team. We were unlucky in the last game [against Islamabad United] but still we have made a good start to the tournament here [in Abu Dhabi], similar to what we did in Karachi. Hopefully we can continue that in the upcoming games,” he said.

“I have never thought about picking five wickets heading into a game. I’m more focused on bowling economically as it puts pressure on the batsmen and makes them play risky shots, against the bowler bowling from the other end, which results in wickets. During that match [against Peshawar Zalmi] the ball was turning so I bowled with an attacking mindset, which resulted in the five-wicket haul,” he added. 

He also shared his thoughts on Afghanistan’s ODI series against Pakistan, later this year.

“It will be a good series against Pakistan because playing and performing against a top team gives you confidence. I’m looking forward to that series and hopefully we will see some good cricket,” he concluded.