Lahore Qalandars' Shakib Al Hasan emphasises importance of upcoming matches

Star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has highlighted the critical importance of Lahore Qalandars' upcoming matches, particularly their clash against Karachi Kings, as the team pushes for a playoff spot in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Speaking to Geo News ahead of Lahore Qalandars' clash with Karachi Kings today, the former Bangladesh cricket team captain, who recently joined the Qalandars, expressed satisfaction with his first outing.

"A win was very important to qualify for the playoffs," he stated.

"Our match against Karachi Kings is very important. We have to win and that is our target at the moment. Karachi Kings are a very good team. We have to play our best cricket," he added.

Shakib, who has witnessed the evolution of the PSL over the past decade, noted: "I have seen the Pakistan Super League improve in 10 years." 

He further elaborated on his positive experiences in the league, stating: "I have played PSL before and it has always been good. Every time I came to PSL, the experience here has been good. PSL has grown a lot in the past 10 years. I have seen improvement."

The veteran cricketer also shared his positive impressions of the Lahore Qalandars' team environment. 

"The atmosphere of Lahore Qalandars is very wonderful," he remarked. He expressed his enjoyment of sharing the dressing room with fast bowlers like Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, whom he has previously played against. 

"Now I am sharing the dressing room with these fast bowlers. We are getting a chance to know each other," he said.

Addressing the challenge of returning to cricket after a break, Shakib explained, "When you return to cricket after a long time, you are very excited. Along with being excited, you also have to see how your body is responding. Playing after a long time is a little different, but it has been good for me. The upcoming matches of Lahore Qalandars will definitely be good for me."

Regarding his future in franchise cricket, Shakib indicated his desire to continue participating in various leagues, including the PSL. 

"I would like to play in other leagues including the Pakistan Super League right now. I do not know what will happen in the next four to five months. I have contracts now. I will definitely play leagues," he affirmed.

Looking beyond franchise cricket, Shakib also commented on the upcoming Pakistan-Bangladesh T20 series. He anticipates a "good series" between the two nations, highlighting the presence of several young and eager players on both sides.