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LAHORE: From playing tennis-ball cricket in the hills of Swat to striking under the Gaddafi Stadium lights, Karachi Kings’ emerging pacer Fawad Ali took a big step in his professional career on Friday, claiming his maiden wicket in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
The 20-year-old right-arm fast bowler, a product of the Karachi Kings Talent Hunt Program, made the breakthrough against Quetta Gladiators, removing Hasan Nawaz for 35 to register his first scalp in top-level T20 cricket.
Speaking during the innings break, a visibly emotional Fawad Ali credited the moment to divine blessing.
“First of all, I thank Allah Almighty for granting me this honour and helping me get my first wicket,” Fawad said.
Fawad’s rise is the stuff of dreams. Starting out as a tape-ball cricketer back home in Swat, it was the Karachi Kings’ open trials in 2023 that changed the course of his life.
“I used to play tennis-ball cricket before this,” he recalled. “When Karachi Kings held trials in our area, I topped them and stayed in contact with Masroor Bhai (Assistant Coach). Eventually, the franchise called me to Karachi for training.”
Initially brought into the squad last season as a replacement player, Fawad honed his skills at the Karachi Kings Academy, where regular sessions under the coaching staff helped polish his raw pace and ability.
His growth was rewarded when he was picked in the Emerging Category for PSL 10.
Adding another special touch to his journey, Fawad spoke about the surreal experience of working with his childhood idol — and now mentor — Shaun Tait.
“When I started playing cricket, Shaun Tait was my ideal. Now he’s our bowling coach. It’s a dream come true, and I’ve had the opportunity to learn so much from him,” he said.
READ: ‘Hasan is a leader’: Shaun Tait applauds pacer’s role in Karachi Kings
