Looking at World Cup, Sultans' Shan Masood vows to give 'maximum in every opportunity'

By
Faizan Lakhani
|
Geo.tv/Faizan Lakhani

SHARJAH: Some two and a half years ago, Pakistan’s opening batsman Shan Masood was on the verge of becoming a disappointment in international cricket after an unimpressive tour of England with Pakistan’s Test squad.

But today, he is among the contenders for the World Cup spot after an impressive show in back-to-back domestic seasons.

The 29-year old batsman is currently playing for Multan Sultans in the fourth edition of Pakistan Super League, his second stint with the team but his first opportunity to be among the playing XI.

He is well aware of the fact that performance won’t go unnoticed and he is trying to give his best in the tournament.

“This is first time I’m playing matches in Pakistan Super League and this is a very good opportunity for me as PSL is the biggest platform for Pakistan cricket after international games. So, performance here matters for everyone,” Shan told Geo after his side’s game against Quetta Gladiators in Sharjah on Wednesday.

“Everyone is eyeing a place in the World Cup but there are only 15 places. I aim to give my maximum in every opportunity I get in PSL or even after PSL in the series against Australia, if selected, and to get myself close to being among the 15 for the World Cup,” he added.

Shan has so far managed to score 64 runs from three innings, but he’s hopeful of converting his 20s into 50s as he has his sight on the title of the best batsman in the league.

“Being a batsman, my personal goal here is to become the top batsman of the league and this would be a target for every batsman who’s playing this league. I did start well in matches but couldn’t capitalise, which I should have but I will try to score big in the games to come.”

Talking about PSL, the opening batsman stated that it is helping Pakistan cricket minimise the difference between domestic and international cricket as it is helping players understand top-level cricket scenarios.

“PSL is also helping us in filling the gap between domestic and international cricket as there are not frequent A team tours. In PSL, you not only play along with international players but also play against them, so it gives a feeling of playing top level cricket,” Shan said.

“It’s beneficial in every way for our players, whether you are playing against the top stars or playing alongside them. If you’re with them, you get to learn from their work ethics and attitude on the field and if you’re against them, you’re motivated to give your best and when you do, it boosts your confidence,” Shan said.