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In this exclusive interview, Yasir Hameed – former Pakistan Test opener and the second batsman in history to score a double century on Test debut – shares his blunt, unfiltered views on the state of Pakistan cricket. From empty PSL stadiums demotivating players to Babar Azam’s domestic cricket commitment, from the Fakhar Zaman ball‑tampering controversy to why young Sameer Minhas should not be rushed into the national side.
Key revelations include:
• Empty stadiums impact performance: “The fans aren’t there in the ground. The emptiness is in the player.” – He explains that players feed off the energy and passion of the crowd, and empty stands can lead to a demotivating environment and a perception of "dull" cricket.
• Babar Azam’s first‑class problem: “He doesn’t take his first‑class seriously.” – Hameed provides a critical perspective on why Babar Azam is currently struggling. He argues that Babar does not take first-class cricket seriously enough. He compares Babar to legend Younis Khan, who never missed a first-class game when available. Hameed believes that returning to domestic cricket would help Babar unlock the "psychological locks" he is facing at the international level.
• Fakhar Zaman’s ban fallout: “It will carry on with him for the rest of his life.” – Regarding the ball-tampering allegations and two-match ban against Fakhar Zaman, Hameed describes it as "very unfortunate" for a player known for being a humble sportsman.
• Rushing young talent: “It will be very early for him.” – Hameed is highly impressed by the youngster's basic technique, body language, and game awareness. However, he warns against rushing him into the national team too early, suggesting he should first play a few seasons of first-class cricket to build a solid base.
• Younis Khan’s work ethic: “He’s never taken shortcuts in his career.” – Hameed expresses strong support for involving greats like Younis Khan in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), particularly in roles related to domestic cricket, due to their proven work ethic and experience.
• Steve Smith’s professional example: “Our youngsters are sharing the dressing room with him.” – The presence of global stars like Steve Smith and Peter Siddle in the PSL is seen as a massive opportunity for local youngsters. Hameed highlights Siddle’s 6:00 AM gym routine as a prime example of the professionalism young Pakistani players should emulate.
• Future stars to watch: “I’m very impressed with Maaz Sadaqat.” – He also mentions Shamil Hussain, Maaz Sadaqat, and Abdullah Fazal as exciting prospects for the future of Pakistan cricket.
Watch full interview with Saj here:
Key revelations include:
• Empty stadiums impact performance: “The fans aren’t there in the ground. The emptiness is in the player.” – He explains that players feed off the energy and passion of the crowd, and empty stands can lead to a demotivating environment and a perception of "dull" cricket.
• Babar Azam’s first‑class problem: “He doesn’t take his first‑class seriously.” – Hameed provides a critical perspective on why Babar Azam is currently struggling. He argues that Babar does not take first-class cricket seriously enough. He compares Babar to legend Younis Khan, who never missed a first-class game when available. Hameed believes that returning to domestic cricket would help Babar unlock the "psychological locks" he is facing at the international level.
• Fakhar Zaman’s ban fallout: “It will carry on with him for the rest of his life.” – Regarding the ball-tampering allegations and two-match ban against Fakhar Zaman, Hameed describes it as "very unfortunate" for a player known for being a humble sportsman.
• Rushing young talent: “It will be very early for him.” – Hameed is highly impressed by the youngster's basic technique, body language, and game awareness. However, he warns against rushing him into the national team too early, suggesting he should first play a few seasons of first-class cricket to build a solid base.
• Younis Khan’s work ethic: “He’s never taken shortcuts in his career.” – Hameed expresses strong support for involving greats like Younis Khan in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), particularly in roles related to domestic cricket, due to their proven work ethic and experience.
• Steve Smith’s professional example: “Our youngsters are sharing the dressing room with him.” – The presence of global stars like Steve Smith and Peter Siddle in the PSL is seen as a massive opportunity for local youngsters. Hameed highlights Siddle’s 6:00 AM gym routine as a prime example of the professionalism young Pakistani players should emulate.
• Future stars to watch: “I’m very impressed with Maaz Sadaqat.” – He also mentions Shamil Hussain, Maaz Sadaqat, and Abdullah Fazal as exciting prospects for the future of Pakistan cricket.
Watch full interview with Saj here:
