[EXCLUSIVE] From Kabbadi to PSL, the fascinating story of Imran Randhawa

The Bald Eagle

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Saj recently caught up with the talented 27-year-old all-rounder from Khanewal, Mohammad Imran Randhawa. Since his First-Class debut in 2015, he has made a name for himself in domestic cricket. With stints at teams like Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL), State Bank of Pakistan, and Peshawar Zalmi, he has taken 152 wickets and scored over 2,700 runs in domestic matches.

Imran spoke about his journey, which started in an unexpected place: Kabaddi! He was a top player in that sport who used his earnings to buy cricket gear for training. Despite being successful in Kabaddi, his heart was set on cricket. He chose to follow his passion, even turning down offers to join the Pakistan Army.

In the interview, Randhawa talked about:

His cricket journey: Shared his fascinating journey of transformation from a Kabbadi player to a cricketer.

Views on domestic cricket: Emphasized the importance of proper fitness for any domestic player and shared thoughts on his past performances in Pakistan domestic cricket.

On selection in PSL and other leagues: Shared his grievances regarding non-selection in PSL's latest edition despite stellar performances in other domestic leagues in Pakistan and termed the bias against people of Southern Punjab a big reason behind this phenomenon.

Thoughts on A tours: Described it as essential for upcoming cricketers but at the same time raised questions on lack of a proper criterion for their selection.

Views regarding lack of proper all-rounders in Pakistan side:
Expressed amazement at selection of players like Aamer Jamal as an all-rounder while at the same highlighted the unequal opportunities for other all-rounders from the past and present lot of players.

Watch the detailed interview below:

 
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It's disheartening that talented players like him, and many before, have been overlooked despite their consistent hard work in domestic cricket.

His decision to transition from kabaddi to cricket is certainly intriguing and perhaps a wise one, considering the limited opportunities for kabaddi players in Pakistan compared to the global platform cricket provides.
 
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I think he is more of a bowler than a batter,if he focuses on his bowling only, he will have a bright future ahead.
 
The comments about regional bias are alarming.

It's something that has been mentoned to me in the past, but it still seems to be around more than ever.

God help Pakistan cricket because it's only heading in one direction at the moment.
 
Felt for Imran, despite being a top performer he got overlooked and now he is playing cricket abroad because people at home are unwilling to afford opportunities to such black horses.
 
Regional bias is always there in PCB and there are many players who had to go through such things in Pakistan.

It is disheartening to see that it is just a talk-show so far and no real efforts are made to promote fairness and equality. Such biases still seem to prevail.
 
Bias against cricketers from Balochistan is also too common and it is sad to know that this phenomenon even exists for cricketers from Punjab's under developed region
 
Not sure why he is not playing Champions One-Day cup. Maybe he has left Pakistan for good now.
 
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