Azmatullah Omarzai Aims for T20 Growth, Targets 140 kmph Bowling Consistency

Afghanistan and Punjab Kings all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai has set ambitious goals for himself in T20 cricket. After an exceptional year in ODIs, where he was named ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year, the 25-year-old is now focused on improving his strike rate and enhancing his fast-bowling skills. His standout performances in the Champions Trophy, where he led Afghanistan to a famous win over England with a crucial 41-run knock and a five-wicket haul, have further raised expectations.

Working on T20 Strike Rate and Death Bowling

Omarzai acknowledges that while ODIs allow batters time to settle, T20s demand an aggressive approach from the outset. He admitted that he needs to accelerate his scoring and play impactful innings in the shortest format. “In ODIs, you get time to build an innings, but T20s are different. I need to improve my strike rate and play long innings to contribute better for my team,” Omarzai said.

His focus is not limited to batting. As Afghanistan has struggled with death bowling in recent years, Omarzai aims to step up as a genuine fast bowler. “I want to consistently bowl at 140 kmph. International cricket is evolving, and if you don’t develop new skills, opponents will figure you out. I want to be seen as a proper fast bowler, not just an all-rounder or a medium pacer. Improving my pace and perfecting my death bowling is my main goal,” he added.

Learning from Ponting and Shreyas Iyer

Playing under the guidance of legendary coach Ricky Ponting at Punjab Kings has been a learning experience for Omarzai. The team has been on the road for its opening games. This has limited his interactions with Ponting. But he has already had valuable discussions with captain Shreyas Iyer. “Shreyas is calm and composed, and I’ve enjoyed learning from him. He advised me on facing fast bowlers in T20 cricket, emphasizing the importance of using their pace rather than forcing shots. His experience at the international level has helped me understand how to build my game,” Omarzai shared.

IPL as a Crucial Stepping Stone

With the ICC T20 World Cup set to take place in India and Sri Lanka next year, Omarzai sees IPL 2025 as the perfect platform to refine his skills. “The IPL is a great opportunity to prepare for the World Cup. The experience of playing in different conditions, against top bowlers, and under pressure will help me become a better T20 player,” he said.

Omarzai has already established himself as a key player in ODIs. Now he aims to replicate that success in T20 cricket. With an eye on improving his strike rate, perfecting his fast bowling, and learning from seasoned professionals, he is determined to elevate his game and cement his place as one of Afghanistan’s finest all-rounders across all formats.

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