SHARJAH: The HBL Pakistan Super League has given a new hope to little known players from remote areas, those who have no chance of making it big at the domestic circuit, says Lahore Qalandars’ Sohail Akhtar.

The 32-year-old has emerged as a hard-hitting opener for the Qalandars in the fourth edition.

Among the six franchises, Qalandars stand out in unearthing unknown players like Salman Irshad, Haris Rauf and Sohail Akhtar and developed them under their programme and taking the greenhorns to Australia for further grooming.

Despite making his first-class debut in 2013 and a bit of performance of note in the National Twenty20, Sohail only earned a name through PSL 2018 where he came with a reputation of being a clean hitter. But coming down low in the order, he got limited chances.

This year he has been given a new role of opening the innings with Fakhar Zaman. That has provided Sohail to finally living up to his potential.

“I used to call players from my region [Abbottabad] for trials but they were so disheartened that they would instantly refuse, saying that it’s a waste of time and money,” recalls Sohail. “But since the start of the SL and the emergence of players like Haris, Hasan Ali, Shadab Khan and others they are now willing to come for trials. PSL has given a new hope to unknown players from remote areas.”

The dashing batsman, who smashed 37 and 39 in quick time in the first two matches and promises more in the tournament, praised the Qalandars management for unearthing raw talent.

“Particularly franchise like Lahore Qalandars has worked very well,” said Sohail. “Look at the way Haris Rauf came to the fore and a lot of players now come for the trials because they have hopes that if Haris can make it then any other player can make it big.”

Sohail, who has a strike rate of 130.46 in 38 domestic T20 matches, said PSL has given him a big opportunity to learn from local and foreign players.

“I have learnt a lot and have enjoyed playing in the PSL,” he admits. “PSL gives us an opportunity to share the dressing room with some great players. How they practice and how they behave on and off the field. They tell us, what we used to miss, so we have got to learn that by playing in the PSL.

“When I played domestic cricket there was no cricket in Pakistan but the HBL PSL has given us everything.”

Despite age not on his side, Sohail harbours hope of a place in the national team.

“The target is always to play for Pakistan,” said Sohail. “Even if you are playing for a club you have that aim and that inspires one further to play for Pakistan.”

Published in Dawn, February 22nd, 2019