[EXCLUSIVE] "We beat Pakistan in all four departments, including fitness": Ali Khan

[BouncerGuy]

In a stunning upset at the ICC 2024 T20 World Cup, the USA defeated Pakistan, the 2009 champions and three-time finalists, in a thrilling super-over finish. Ali Khan was part of the XI that took down Pakistan.

In the latest episode of PakPassion exclusive interviews, Saj talks with USA fast bowler Ali Khan to reflect on his role in this historic victory and shares his insights on USA cricket's remarkable rise and the thrill of overcoming a cricketing giant in the World Cup.

Ali Khan also discusses his experiences playing in top T20 leagues around the world, including the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he has represented Karachi Kings and Islamabad United. Additionally, he touches on key topics such as fitness, the challenges of fast bowling, and much more.

Some of the key highlights of this interview are:

Impact of Historic Win: Discusses why victory over Pakistan was a pivotal moment, generating significant media attention and interest in cricket within the USA.

Confidence against Pakistan: How they went into that match brimming with confidence and genuinely believed they could outplay Pakistan, showcasing their preparation and mentality.

Future of USA Cricket: Emphasized the potential for cricket to flourish in the USA and pointed out the ongoing infrastructure improvements and the surge in interest as key drivers behind this growth.

T20 Performance: Highlighted that success in the T20 World Cup has the potential to change the trajectory of USA Cricket, elevating its status on the global stage.

Longevity in the Game: Expressed his desire to continue playing as long as he remains fit, drawing inspiration from athletes like Ronaldo and LeBron James.

Watch the full interview here:

 

[Cryin Out Loud]

For a split second I thought a Bangladeshi player was stating this, and realised that post the Test series they justifiably could have too.

 

[FearlessRoar]

Ali is right that by beating Pakistan, USA cricket has gained recognition globally. It's unfortunate that we were defeated by players who were neglected by their own countries' selection boards

 

[ask_analyse_act]

Big slap on the face for PCB, and the players.. Step down Babar!! #notgoodenough...
Now can't even bat which was his only forte...

 

[The Bald Eagle]

That win is a life long stigma for Pakistan cricket ,tbh USA was good but not that great to beat a decent side in recent T20 WC.

 

[Energy]

These overseas Pakistani players get their caffeine levels up and running when talking shenanigans against Pakistan. We had Sikandar Raza also say something along the same lines a couple of years ago.

The actual Pakistani-iat comes out of them when they're unable to perform against other teams.

 

[pratiktc]

That win is a life long stigma for Pakistan cricket ,tbh USA was good but not that great to beat a decent side in recent T20 WC.

Cmon it is not that bad. In T20Is this can happen to anyone.SA were nearly losing to Nepal this time and lost to Netherlands last time.

Pak also lost to Zim and still made final last time.

It is good that small teams are competing hard in WT20. It makes game much more watchable.

 

[Saj]

I bet Ali is relieved that he left the Pakistani cricket system early in his career.

He probably would have ended up like so many other Pakistani pacers - on the scrapheap, mishandled, injured and with no future.

No wonder so many cricketers in Pakistan are desperate to move out of Pakistan to continue their cricket careers.

 

[The Bald Eagle]

England international Chris Jordan will join the Trinbago Knight Riders for the remainder of the 2024 season. The experienced all-rounder will replace USA international Ali Khan who was forced to withdraw from the tournament due to injury.

 

[The Bald Eagle]

In fitness department it's too hard to defeat USA team at the moment but skill wise Pakistan is still superior to US and can beat them if they play the game tactically not whimsically. Ali Khan is a great athlete for US but it would be fun watching him venture his luck in PSL.