ISLAMABAD: Derbyshire cricket team’s Director and Pakistan cricket team Director, Mickey Arthur, has heaped praise on Pakistan pacer Zaman Khan for his impressive bowling display in the opening match of the ongoing T20 Vitality Blast tournament in the United Kingdom.
Arthur, who also holds the position of head of cricket at Derbyshire cricket club, spoke highly of the bowler during a media interaction following Derbyshire Falcons’ defeat against Lancashire Lightning in their first match.
Zaman Khan was recruited by Arthur to bolster the bowling squad of the Derbyshire Falcons in the T20 Blast. Despite having only one practice session prior to the match, the Pakistani pacer was thrust into action against Lancashire at Edgbaston. While he had a tough start to the tournament, leaking runs in his initial overs, Zaman made a strong comeback later in the game.
Although Lancashire’s Luke Wells hit him for a six on the first ball, Zaman managed to take his first wicket on English soil, dismissing George Bell. Arthur expressed optimism about Zaman’s progress, highlighting his ability to consistently deliver fast yorkers, bouncers, and slower balls, which are valuable skills for the team.
After conceding 31 runs in his first two overs, Zaman showcased his prowess in the latter part of the innings. Employing a combination of fast-paced yorkers, bouncers, and slower deliveries, he claimed his second wicket by clean bowling Colin de Grandhomme. Arthur praised Zaman’s suitability for the team’s requirements, particularly his capability to bowl two overs during the powerplay and two at the death, which is a valuable asset.
Zaman Khan’s performance over past couple of years
Zaman Khan, hailing from Azad Jammu Kashmir and coming from a humble background, has consistently demonstrated his talent over the past couple of years. His exceptional performances in this year’s Pakistan Super League for the Lahore Qalandars, where he claimed 15 wickets in 13 matches, earned him a call-up to the national team. Making his debut in March during the T20I series against Afghanistan, Zaman has shown remarkable skills in bowling at the death overs while under pressure.
Arthur expressed confidence that Zaman will continue to improve as the tournament progresses, especially considering it is his first time playing in England and adjusting to the conditions. The optimistic coach believes that with another week of experience, Zaman will be ready for their upcoming match against the Nottinghamshire Outlaws.
Zaman Khan’s next opportunity to shine will be on Friday, May 26, when the Derbyshire Falcons face off against the Nottinghamshire Outlaws in the highly anticipated East Midlands Derby at Trent Bridge, Nottingham.
