Khurram Shahzad Born on November 25, 1999, in Mandi Bahauddin, Punjab, Pakistan, Khurram Shahzad’s journey to professional cricket began in humble surroundings. Growing up in a region with limited cricketing infrastructure, Shahzad’s passion for the game was evident from a young age. He started playing hard-ball cricket in his hometown but soon realized the need for better facilities and competition. This led him to move to Sargodha to play club cricket, and eventually to Lahore, where he joined the Aligarh Club. His talent was recognized in 2017 when he was selected by the National Cricket Academy to bowl to the national squad ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Domestic Cricket Career
Shahzad’s professional career took off when he made his first-class debut for Habib Bank Limited in the 2017–18 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. He continued to impress in domestic circuits, making his List A debut on October 16, 2018, against Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited. His T20 debut came on October 6, 2020, playing for Balochistan in the National T20 Cup.
Over the years, Shahzad has represented various domestic teams, including Faisalabad, Multan, and Southern Punjab. His consistent performances, especially in the 2020–21 domestic season, where he emerged as one of the leading wicket-takers in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, showcased his potential and readiness for international cricket.
Pakistan Super League (PSL) Journey
Shahzad’s prowess earned him a spot in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). He was initially picked by the Quetta Gladiators in PSL 6, where he played five matches and took seven wickets. His impressive performances led to his selection by Peshawar Zalmi in PSL 8 in the silver category. He continued to be a valuable asset, taking three wickets in three matches. Recognizing his potential,
International Debut and Performances
Shahzad’s consistent domestic performances culminated in his selection for the national team. He made his Test debut for Pakistan on December 14, 2023, against Australia in Perth. Since then, he has played six Test matches, taking 20 wickets with best bowling
One of his standout performances came against Bangladesh in the 2024 Test series, where he took six wickets in a single innings, breaking a crucial 165-run partnership and leading Pakistan to a significant victory.
Playing Style and Comparison
Standing at 6 feet 1 inch, Shahzad’s height gives him an advantage in extracting bounce from the pitch. His right-arm medium-fast bowling is characterized by consistent line and length, combined with the ability to swing the ball both ways. Due to his bowling style and aggression, he has often been compared to former South African pacer Dale Steyn.
Personal Life
While Shahzad keeps his personal life private, it’s known that he is unmarried and focuses primarily on his cricketing career. He is a practicing Muslim and enjoys spending time with family and friends during his off days.
Achievements and Recognition
- Leading Wicket-Taker: In the 2023–24 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Shahzad was the leading wicket-taker, claiming 36 wickets at an impressive average of 20.31.
- PSL Performances: His consistent performances in the PSL have made him a sought-after player in the league.
- National Recognition: Shahzad’s rapid rise in international cricket has been acknowledged by cricketing legends and analysts, predicting a bright future for the young pacer.
Future Prospects
At just 25 years old, Khurram Shahzad has already made significant strides in both domestic and international cricket. With his dedication, skill set, and continuous improvement, he is poised to become a mainstay in Pakistan’s bowling lineup for years to come. His journey serves as an inspiration for many young cricketers from smaller towns, showcasing that with talent and perseverance, dreams can indeed become reality.
