Pacer Kashif Ali hopeful of cementing position in Pakistan's Test squad

LONDON: Pakistan’s rising fast bowler Kashif Ali is hopeful that strong first-class performances and a stint with English county Kent, his first in the ongoing county championship will help him to cement his spot in Pakistan’s Test team.

From making his Test debut in a home series against the West Indies to playing county cricket in England for the first time, the 30-year-old is living through what he calls the most “blessed” phase of his life — both on and off the field.

He was speaking exclusively to Geo News at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, after the match between Kent CCC and host Middlesex CCC.

“Alhamdulillah, it’s been a special year,” Kashif said. “I debuted in Test cricket and soon after, got the opportunity to play for Kent. It’s not easy adjusting to new conditions — the weather, the pitches, the overall environment — but I’m really happy with how things have gone so far.”

Kashif, who has been a consistent performer in Pakistan’s domestic circuit, sees county cricket as a major step up. In five championship matches he has played so far, he’s bagged 11 wickets.

“The facilities, structure, and support systems here are on another level. Cricket is the same everywhere — but the professional environment here really allows you to perform at your best.”

Playing under coach Adam Hollioake — who previously worked with Pakistan’s national team — has made Kashif’s transition into county cricket smoother. “He’s very friendly and encouraging. We clicked within just a couple of sessions,” he said.

For any cricketer, playing at Lord’s is a career-defining moment, and Kashif was no exception. “As a young boy in Rawalpindi, I used to hear about the Lord's and wonder what it would be like. Playing here was surreal. It truly feels like the home of cricket — from the crowd to the atmosphere, even down to the amazing food during the breaks,” he laughed.

Earlier this year, Kashif earned his first call to the national squad when he made his Test debut in Multan, as the lone fast bowler in Pakistan’s Test XI against the West Indies. “Representing Pakistan in Test cricket was a huge honour — a moment of pride for me, my wife, my parents, and my whole family. It’s a feeling I find hard to put into words.”

But it wasn’t just his cricketing milestones that made 2024 unforgettable. Kashif also became a father. “My daughter was born just before my Test debut — and since then, things have taken a beautiful turn. She’s been a source of strength and motivation for me. I genuinely believe she brought me good luck,” he shared.

Kashif’s cricketing journey began in 2010, inspired by legendary pacer Shoaib Akhtar, a fellow Rawalpindi native. “Watching Shoaib Bhai made me fall in love with fast bowling. His energy, aggression, and passion left a huge impression on me.”

Looking ahead, Kashif remains focused on maintaining his form and earning a regular spot in Pakistan’s national team. “InshaAllah, my goal is to keep performing and stay in contention. That’s how you keep your place — with consistency.”

With the support of his family, coaches, and mentors — and a promising county season underway — Kashif Ali is not only making his mark in first-class cricket but also laying the foundation for a long and impactful international career.