A chance to play once again in England and hone his T20 skills is something Pakistan pace-bowler Naseem Shah has in mind with his participation in this year’s Vitality Blast tournament.
“Whilst my stint at Leicestershire is a short one, I didn’t want to lose the opportunity to play in England and the chance to continue my learning. When the chance came to sign for Leicestershire, I didn’t hesitate as they have a great reputation and the likes of Shahid Afridi, Abdul Razzaq and Mohammad Abbas have previously played there and have always spoken very positively about their experience.”
Whilst Naseem made his international debut back in November 2019 aged just 16, he feels that his career is very much, work-in-progress.
“At times it feels like I’ve been around forever in top level cricket, but people forget that I am still only 20 years-old and that I am still learning the art of bowling. That’s why I feel it’s so important for me to utilise these chances to play in various leagues around the world.”
In last season’s Vitality Blast, Naseem made 3 appearances for Gloucestershire taking 5 wickets which is something he is looking to build upon under the guidance of Paul Nixon this year at Leicestershire.
“Playing alongside and against some of the best players in the world at the Blast can only act as an education for me. Also, playing under a coach with the experience of Paul Nixon will improve me as a cricketer and I always believe that working under coaches from various countries is something that improves you as a cricketer providing you are willing to learn and have the right attitude.”
Naseem feels the role of coaches is an important one, but ultimately players have to take ownership for their own performances and improvement.
“I think sometimes cricketers can over-rely on coaches. I enjoy working under various coaches but as a cricketer once you are on the field, it’s down to you to perform and everything is in your hands to put into practice what you have been learning and working on. It’s too easy to fall back and blame coaches when things go wrong and that’s not something I will ever do.”
With time and experience, Naseem feels that he has moved away from the mould of the tearaway fast-bowler, and for a good reason.
“I feel that with experience I have matured as a bowler. When I first came into cricket, if a batter hit me for four, I would want to knock his head off the next ball, sledge him and stare him down. But now whilst some aggression is still there, I know that some days the batter gets the better of you and other times you will get the better of that batter so I have calmed down a little.”
Having already seen several injuries in his career, Naseem is hoping for a smoother ride as he looks to fulfil his potential for Pakistan.
“Looking ahead, staying fit is the key for me, Pakistan has some big tournaments and series coming up, such as the Asia Cup, The World Cup and a tour of Australia. I suffered with injuries in the early part of my career but now I am stronger, older and wiser, and I feel that I can only get better as a cricketer and want to achieve great things for my country.”
