January 17, 2008	Thursday	Muharram 07, 1429

KARACHI, Jan 16: Pakistan’s seasoned all-rounder Shahid Afridi, who is leading the PCB Patron’s XI in the current four-day match against Zimbabwe, on Wednesday predicted a bright future for Sohail Khan, the strapping fast bowler who has made a meteoric entry into first-class cricket this season.

Talking to reporters after the third day’s play, Afridi described Sohail as a good find who could be playing for Pakistan, having taken 65 wickets in nine matches for Sui Southern Gas Corporation (SSGC) in the Quaid-i-Azam Trophy.

The Malakand-born Sohail, now based in Karachi, broke a longstanding national record when he claimed 16 for 189 against Wapda last month to surpass the legendary Fazal Mahmood’s 15 for 76.

After remaining wicketless in the first innings, the paceman who turns 24 on March 6, rattled the Zimbabweans by capturing the wickets of Hamilton Masakadza, Sean Williams and Keith Dabengwa in quick succession to earn the compliment from Afridi.

“Sohail, in my view, is a great prospect for Pakistan. He has got the ability to trouble the best of batsmen with his pace. I have been very impressed by this fellow,” Afridi said.

However, Afridi said Sohail still needed to sort out his action.

“His run-up needs fine-tuning because it’s not as smooth as it should be. Once he does that, I’m sure he will be an asset for Pakistan cricket.”