- Joined
- Nov 25, 2023
- Runs
- 23,555
In this exclusive PakPassion interview, 32-year-old slow left-arm spinner Ali Usman opens up about his remarkable domestic season, where he finished as the top wicket-taker in the Quaid e Azam Trophy 2025/26 . The Vihari-born cricketer discusses his unconventional, nine-year journey to first-class cricket, the systemic hurdles at the district level, his analysis of modern batters against spin, and his unwavering hope for a national team call-up.
Watch the latest interview with Saj below:
Key Revelations include:
* Lost years in the system: "I wasted those four years." Usman reflects on a period of stagnation where, despite his readiness, the lack of a clear pathway or consistent opportunities kept him on the sidelines. He views this gap not just as a professional delay, but as a loss of prime years that could have been spent competing at a higher level.
* Secret to a standout season: "I work hard every year but this time, I think I worked harder." While consistency has always been part of his routine, Usman points to an intensified training regimen as the catalyst for his recent success. This "extra gear" involved fine-tuning his accuracy and physical conditioning, proving that even for established players, there is always a higher ceiling to reach.
* Modern batting flaw: "The batsmen don't have much patience... there is a lack of temperament." In a blunt critique of the current era, Usman notes that the T20 influence has eroded the defensive techniques required for the long format. He observes that modern batters often "panic" against sustained spin, looking for big shots rather than grinding out sessions, which plays right into a spinner's hands.
* Case for national selection: "The performer should get a chance." Usman advocates for a merit-based system where domestic statistics aren't just numbers, but mandates for selection. He believes if a player consistently tops the charts in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, they have earned the right to test their skills on the international stage.
* Ambitious future goal: "I will try to score 100 wickets." Setting a benchmark rarely seen in modern domestic cricket, Usman’s target of 100 wickets in a single season signals his intent to dominate. This isn't just a personal milestone; it’s a statement of his durability and his standout ability.
* Eyes on the prize: "I am very hopeful that I will also get an opportunity." Despite the "lost years," Usman remains deeply optimistic. He believes that his recent performances have made him impossible to ignore, and he is keeping his focus sharp for the moment the national call-up finally arrives.
* Lost years in the system: "I wasted those four years." Usman reflects on a period of stagnation where, despite his readiness, the lack of a clear pathway or consistent opportunities kept him on the sidelines. He views this gap not just as a professional delay, but as a loss of prime years that could have been spent competing at a higher level.
* Secret to a standout season: "I work hard every year but this time, I think I worked harder." While consistency has always been part of his routine, Usman points to an intensified training regimen as the catalyst for his recent success. This "extra gear" involved fine-tuning his accuracy and physical conditioning, proving that even for established players, there is always a higher ceiling to reach.
* Modern batting flaw: "The batsmen don't have much patience... there is a lack of temperament." In a blunt critique of the current era, Usman notes that the T20 influence has eroded the defensive techniques required for the long format. He observes that modern batters often "panic" against sustained spin, looking for big shots rather than grinding out sessions, which plays right into a spinner's hands.
* Case for national selection: "The performer should get a chance." Usman advocates for a merit-based system where domestic statistics aren't just numbers, but mandates for selection. He believes if a player consistently tops the charts in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, they have earned the right to test their skills on the international stage.
* Ambitious future goal: "I will try to score 100 wickets." Setting a benchmark rarely seen in modern domestic cricket, Usman’s target of 100 wickets in a single season signals his intent to dominate. This isn't just a personal milestone; it’s a statement of his durability and his standout ability.
* Eyes on the prize: "I am very hopeful that I will also get an opportunity." Despite the "lost years," Usman remains deeply optimistic. He believes that his recent performances have made him impossible to ignore, and he is keeping his focus sharp for the moment the national call-up finally arrives.
Watch the latest interview with Saj below:
