Pakistan’s rising mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed is fine-tuning a googly for the upcoming Asia Cup and revealed he has taken valuable tips from Afghanistan’s star spinner Rashid Khan.
Pakistan’s rising mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed is fine-tuning a googly for the upcoming Asia Cup and revealed he has taken valuable tips from Afghanistan’s star spinner Rashid Khan.
I was telling Rashid about my googly. I am developing this delivery ahead of the Asia Cup. I asked him about the length, and he was kind enough to share useful tips. I am sure I’ll use it with the best effect to fetch wickets and help my team.
Inspired by a Modern Great
Rashid, the leading wicket-taker in T20 internationals (167) and the highest overall wicket-taker in T20 cricket (666), has been a role model for Abrar.
I am always trying to learn from great bowlers, and Rashid is no doubt one of the greats of our game.
Asia Cup Challenge Ahead
With the Asia Cup beginning on 8 September in Dubai, Abrar expects a fierce contest. “All the teams will come well prepared. We are confident of doing well, and of course, the highlight will be Pakistan versus India—everyone is waiting for that game.”
Kohli’s Words of Praise
Abrar first caught attention during the Champions Trophy, where he impressed Virat Kohli with figures of 10-0-28-1. Kohli, who scored a match-winning century in that game, later praised the young spinner.
Grateful for his appreciation. His greatness as a cricketer is only matched by his humility as a person. A true inspiration on and off the field.
Kohli retired from T20 internationals after India’s World Cup triumph last year.
Breakthrough Spell in Sharjah
Despite sitting out Pakistan’s first three tri-series matches, Abrar made an explosive impact when handed a chance, returning career-best figures of 4-9 against the UAE.
Yes, it was tough to sit outside. But when you watch from the sidelines, it increases your hunger. When my chance came, I did my best and helped the team win.
Ready for India and Beyond
The mystery spinner knows bowling to India’s famed batting line-up won’t be easy.
“It will be a big challenge because they have been doing well in T20Is. But I rely on my strengths and don’t think about reputations. Whether against India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh or Afghanistan, my focus remains the same: take wickets and help Pakistan win.”
