Wahab Riaz is still hopeful about his comeback to the national team after playing under Babar Azam for Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League in 2023. He said that it gives him a better chance to prove himself in front of the Pakistan captain.
Wahab Riaz hopeful
Babar Azam joined Peshawar Zalmi and took over the leadership duties from the veteran Pakistan bowler. Riaz said, “It is good that Babar has come to Peshawar Zalmi. You expect Pakistan captain to lead in franchise cricket as well.” He believes that it is a great opportunity for him to return to the national team. Wahab Riaz was last seen donning the Pakistan national team jersey in December 2020 in a T20I against New Zealand at Seddon Park in Hamilton.
He explained that with less pressure on him, he can solely focus on his bowling now. “As a player, I am enjoying myself. I have a better chance to show him or prove to him, what I am capable of. I can perform in this tournament and make a comeback [in the national team]. It is good that he is leading, because there is less pressure on me. I can think about my bowling and execute it well.”
Focus on World Cup
In three Pakistan Super League 2023 matches, Wahab Riaz has picked up two wickets at an economy rate of 8.58. He became the captain of the franchise when Daren Sammy became the coach. He led the side for a couple of seasons before being replaced by Babar Azam.
Regarding the same, the 37-year-old said, “My aim is to win matches in this tournament in different situations. Your performance is not only dependent on how many wickets you take. It also depends on how you have bowled in different pressure situations. I am looking forward to it and if it is in my fate, then I will definitely play 2023 World Cup”.
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