ISLAMABAD: Shahzaib Khan, the young Pakistani opening batter, has captured widespread attention following his remarkable 159-run knock against India in the ACC Under-19 Asia Cup 2024.
This stellar performance not only secured the highest score by a Pakistan batter at the Under-19 ODI level but also marked the highest score ever made by a batter against India’s Under-19 side in white-ball cricket.
Before Khan’s historic innings, the record for the best score by a Pakistani batter against India in the Under-19 format was held by Sami Aslam, who made 134 runs in 2012 in Kuala Lumpur.
The previous year, Shamyl Hussain had set a high benchmark with his 150-run performance against Sri Lanka in Karachi.
Who is Shahzaib Khan?
Shahzaib Khan was born in Mansehra in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. He credits his older brother as his inspiration to pursue a career in cricket.
Khan’s early cricket journey saw him play for Mardan Warriors, and he currently represents Pakistan U-19. His recent feats in the ACC Under-19 Asia Cup 2024 also include a fine 132-run innings against the UAE.
In an interview with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Shahzaib mentioned that while he doesn’t mimic any player’s style, he greatly admires the batting technique of former Pakistani captain Saeed Anwar.
He said, “I don’t copy anyone, but I really enjoy the batting style of Saeed Anwar.”
When it comes to his favorite player in the current Pakistani team, Shahzaib is a big fan of Babar Azam.
He recalled meeting the former captain before the Bangladesh series, where Babar gave him valuable batting tips.
Shahzaib’s cricketing journey began in 2018 when he joined a cricket academy. He quickly rose through the ranks, playing at the Under-13, Under-16, and Under-19 levels.
His success also saw him participate in the Pakistan Junior League (PJL).
The young prodigy’s impressive performances have caught the eye of former cricketers and social media fans, who have hailed him as the emerging star of Pakistan cricket.
Former captain Mohammad Hafeez also praised Shahzaib Khan for his outstanding performance against India in a program on Pakistan Television. He said that he was happy that Shahzaib Khan dominated the entire game.
