LAHORE: Islamabad United captain Shadab Khan hailed Pakistan Super League for giving him a breakthrough to showcase his talent to the world and transforming him into a top-class cricketer. 

“What I am today is solely due to PSL” said Shadab in the latest episode of the PCB Podcast released on Tuesday.

“I entered in this competition as an Emerging Category player, but this tournament gave me the opportunity, belief and confidence to grow and develop as a cricketer and I am pleased that I am now a Platinum Category player,”

He also disclosed that he was never aware of his true potential before getting into the PSL, which later defined his career and turned him into one of the most sought-after spinners in the franchise league all around the globe.

“When I started my cricket, I thought I could be a good U19 or domestic cricketer, but then I got the opportunity in HBL PSL 1 where I was able to deceive and trouble the then world’s best batter Kumar Sangakkara with my wrong’un or leg-spin. This turned things around for me as I started believing in myself and now I can play in any competition, against any opponent and in any tournament with the conviction that I can perform.”

“It was the HBL PSL that provided me with the chance to demonstrate my captaincy and batting abilities with performances and establish myself as a useful and effective all-rounder. Cricket is not only about skill, but also about mental toughness and I think HBL PSL provided me that platform where I was actually able to identify and trust my talent and abilities.”

Talking about the high standard of bowling in the league, the 24-year-old remarked, it made PSL standout among all the other leagues in the world.

“The quality and standard of bowling is far superior than any other league. And it is not me who is saying this, but it is shared publically by the top players who have played in HBL PSL. Personally, it gives me a lot of happiness when world’s best cricketers praise our league and its standard.

“When I am playing in the HBL PSL, I am more focused because I don’t want to lose to my teammates and close friends, otherwise they remind you the whole year with their teasing comments,” he said on a lighter note.

It is pertinent to mention here that Shadab will lead two-time champions Islamabad United during the upcoming season eight of PSL, which starts on February 13 in Multan.

READ: Asif Afirdi receives two-year ban for breaching PCB anti-corruption code