Rahat Ali eyes World Cup spot through performances in PSL

Out-of-favour Pakistan pacer Rahat Ali is eyeing a recall from the national selectors for the upcoming ICC World Cup through the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL). The left-arm pacer is plying his trade for Lahore Qalandars in the fourth edition of the Pakistan Super League. Ali has started the season on a brilliant note by taking four wickets in the season-opener against Islamabad United and then backed it up with three more against Karachi Kings.

Ali took the first four wickets of the defending champions but his efforts eventually went in vain as the Islamabad-based franchise chased down 172 with four balls remaining. While it was the worst possible start for the Qalandars, Ali could not have asked for a better show. He has set the tone for himself for the remainder of the season and is now looking to build on it in order to win back his place in the ODI side.

The 30-year old has completely fallen down in the pecking order, having last played an ODI way back in 2016.  His last appearance for Pakistan also came sometime back when he played in the one-off Test against Ireland last summer. Ali has so far played just 14 ODIs and has picked up 18 wickets but is harbouring hopes of donning the green jersey again.

“I came to the PSL with this target in my mind to give my best and get selectors’ nod for the World Cup,” Rahat told Geotv.in. “I will try my best to perform well in the tournament and finish among the top bowlers.” When asked whether he underestimates any batsman, Ali said, “I don’t have any particular batsman in my mind. I bowl to every batsman considering him a top batsman so that I remain motivated to get maximum wickets. In this format, it is important to get wickets to win matches.”

Qalandars will give better result

Rahat Ali is also hopeful of a good show from the Qalandars this season. He said that the current squad is a very good one and will not let down its fans. “It’s a long season and I’m sure Qalandars will give better results this time. Although we lost the first game we have learned our lessons and will be an improved side in matches to come,” he said.

In the first three seasons, the Qalandars could not progress ahead of the group stage, finishing with the wooden spoon on all the occasions. But with the likes of AB de Villiers, Carlos Brathwaite, Corey Anderson, Fakhar Zaman and other big names in the team, they will be looking to put up a good show this year.

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