LAHORE: Karachi Kings’ fast bowler Mir Hamza remains optimistic about his team’s prospects in high-stakes fixture against Lahore Qalandars in the eliminator of HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10
The Kings will play the Qalandars in the Eliminator of PSL 10 on Thursday at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
Talking to the media here on Wednesday, Mir Hamza, who suffered an injury scare during the clash against Peshawar Zalmi, declared himself fully fit ahead of the crucial fixture.
“I’m completely fit. Everyone had been asking about my fitness,” Hamza told reporters.
Despite an injury scare, Hamza featured in the game against Islamabad United, claiming one for 41 in his allocated four overs.
“I’ve played a game since returning from injury, and I’m feeling good. Lahore vs Karachi games are always exciting — both teams are major PSL rivals,” he remarked.
Looking ahead to the knock-out contest, the 32-year-old seamer highlighted the role of conditions
“Tomorrow’s game will be good. We’ll enjoy it. The whole of Pakistan is our home ground, so the pressure of home and away doesn’t affect us much.”
“Lahore’s team is good, and they’ve been playing here consistently. But conditions might have changed now; the weather has shifted quite a bit,” Mir Hamza observed.
The Karachi-born fast bowler, who has 486 first-class wickets to his name, stressed that both bowlers and batters will have to perform well in the knockout encounter. He also emphasised national selection, admitting that he is ready to grab the opportunity.
“It’s an important match. Bowlers and batters both have to deliver.”
“Earlier, I used to worry about not being selected for the national team. But not anymore. Now the focus is on staying fit and being ready whenever the opportunity comes,” Mir Hamza said.
Hamza hailed Karachi Kings captain David Warner, stating that the team is also getting deeper insight into the Australian mindset.
“David Warner is a big name in cricket. Sharing the dressing room with him gives us the chance to learn positive things. We’re also getting insight into the Australian mindset,” he concluded.
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