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Former Pakistan U19 captain Hassan Khan has spoken about his decision to shift his professional cricket career to the United States of America (USA), clarifying that the move was not driven by frustration or disappointment over opportunities in Pakistan.
Hassan, who led Pakistan at the ICC Men’s U19 World Cup in 2018, made the switch to USA cricket in 2023 after going unsold in that year’s Pakistan Super League (PSL) draft.
Since then, his career has taken a global turn, with appearances in multiple franchise leagues across continents.
After relocating, the all-rounder began his journey with the Chicago Kingsmen before earning a deal with Major League Cricket (MCL) side San Francisco Unicorns.
His performances soon opened doors to further opportunities, including stints in both the Big Bash League (BBL) and Caribbean Premier League (CPL).
He is currently part of the ongoing PSL season as an overseas player representing Hyderabad Kingsmen, thanks to his registration under USA cricket eligibility.
Addressing speculation around his move, Hassan insisted the decision was sudden and not the result of any long-term frustration or lack of opportunity.
“If I’m honest, there wasn’t any particular moment. It was all very sudden, and the decision was made quite abruptly. I didn’t really think it through in detail, like deciding to leave everything behind or anything like that,” he said while speaking during a training session.
“It wasn’t that sort of situation; I simply got an opportunity, quite unexpectedly. As far as I remember, it all happened within a period of about 10 to 15 days.”
Hassan Khan also reflected on his journey, suggesting that playing for Pakistan at the international level may not have been part of his destiny, while expressing gratitude for the path his career has taken.
“Perhaps it just wasn’t in my destiny to play for Pakistan. God has different plans for everyone. It was a slightly difficult path, but it’s the one I chose,” he said.
He added that he is content with his current career trajectory, highlighting the respect he has earned through franchise cricket around the world and expressing gratitude for his journey.
“By the grace of God, I’ve earned respect, and He continues to bless me with it. I’m playing in leagues around the world, and I have no complaints. Alhamdulillah, I’m satisfied with my decision and my cricket,” he said.
Before his move abroad, Hassan represented Quetta Gladiators across four seasons and also played one season for Lahore Qalandars, featuring in 28 matches where he took 16 wickets and scored 137 runs.
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