- Joined
- Aug 12, 2023
- Runs
- 22,584
In this exclusive interview, former Pakistan off-spinner Bilal Asif opens up on his memorable six-wicket haul on Test debut against Australia and the frustration of a career that promised more. The 38-year-old gives a candid assessment of the instability within the Pakistan team, the lack of respect for domestic performers, and why he chose to retire while he could still "give opportunities to others" – and much more.
Key topics discussed:
1. Dream Debut vs Career Reality: Bilal Asif recalled his sensational Test debut in 2018 against Australia, where he took 6 for 36, calling it a personal high point. However, despite such a performance, the match ended in a draw, and his career failed to gain momentum. He expressed frustration at not being given a consistent run in the national side after such a promising start.
2. PCB’s Instability and Poor Planning: He offered a blunt critique of the PCB, highlighting selection uncertainty, lack of communication, and absence of a long-term vision. He pointed out how even captains are often unaware of upcoming plans, which leads to confusion and instability within the team setup.
3. Short-Term Mindset Hurting Pakistan Cricket: He criticized the short-term thinking in Pakistan cricket, where players are judged after just a couple of games. This reactive approach, he argued, creates insecurity, hinders player development, and prevents the building of a stable and confident team environment.
4. Respect for Senior Players, Especially Babar Azam: Bilal defended Babar Azam, calling him “the star of our country,” and urged critics to put ego aside. He emphasized the importance of backing senior players and fostering a culture of respect, rather than constant scrutiny and negativity.
5. Domestic Performers Deserve More Respect: He voiced concern over the lack of recognition for consistent domestic performers like Kamran Ghulam, stating that such players are often overlooked unless backed by influential figures. Bilal stressed that domestic cricket is the backbone of the national team and must be valued accordingly.
6. Spin-Friendly Pitches: A Smart Strategy: Strongly supported Pakistan’s recent move to prepare spin-friendly pitches at home. He described it as a smart, fair tactic that plays to the country’s strengths—one that other nations also employ to gain a home advantage.
7. Retirement Decision & Future Plans: Explaining his early retirement, Bilal said he stepped aside to make room for younger talent, despite still having the passion to play. Looking ahead, he is focused on mentoring and coaching young cricketers, aiming to give back to the game through grassroots development and guidance.
Watch the full interview with Saj here:
Key topics discussed:
1. Dream Debut vs Career Reality: Bilal Asif recalled his sensational Test debut in 2018 against Australia, where he took 6 for 36, calling it a personal high point. However, despite such a performance, the match ended in a draw, and his career failed to gain momentum. He expressed frustration at not being given a consistent run in the national side after such a promising start.
2. PCB’s Instability and Poor Planning: He offered a blunt critique of the PCB, highlighting selection uncertainty, lack of communication, and absence of a long-term vision. He pointed out how even captains are often unaware of upcoming plans, which leads to confusion and instability within the team setup.
3. Short-Term Mindset Hurting Pakistan Cricket: He criticized the short-term thinking in Pakistan cricket, where players are judged after just a couple of games. This reactive approach, he argued, creates insecurity, hinders player development, and prevents the building of a stable and confident team environment.
4. Respect for Senior Players, Especially Babar Azam: Bilal defended Babar Azam, calling him “the star of our country,” and urged critics to put ego aside. He emphasized the importance of backing senior players and fostering a culture of respect, rather than constant scrutiny and negativity.
5. Domestic Performers Deserve More Respect: He voiced concern over the lack of recognition for consistent domestic performers like Kamran Ghulam, stating that such players are often overlooked unless backed by influential figures. Bilal stressed that domestic cricket is the backbone of the national team and must be valued accordingly.
6. Spin-Friendly Pitches: A Smart Strategy: Strongly supported Pakistan’s recent move to prepare spin-friendly pitches at home. He described it as a smart, fair tactic that plays to the country’s strengths—one that other nations also employ to gain a home advantage.
7. Retirement Decision & Future Plans: Explaining his early retirement, Bilal said he stepped aside to make room for younger talent, despite still having the passion to play. Looking ahead, he is focused on mentoring and coaching young cricketers, aiming to give back to the game through grassroots development and guidance.
Watch the full interview with Saj here:
Last edited:
