Speaking exclusively to PakPassion.net, Wahab Riaz spoke of his ambitions and determination to return to the international fold and how he thinks playing in tournaments such as the Sri Lankan Premier League can help him fulfil that ambition.

by Saj Sadiq (27th August, 2012)

 

Wahab Riaz’s last appearance for Pakistan in March was a disaster for both the player and the team as a Virat Kohli inspired India chased down Pakistan’s total of 329 for 6 in Mirpur during the Asia Cup. Whilst Pakistan bounced back from the defeat to India to lift the Asia Cup, the game against India where Wahab went for 50 runs in 4 overs was his last of the tournament and he has not been selected for his country since in any format.

Since making his international debut in a one dayer in Sheikhupura in February 2008 where he took 2 for 19 from 8 overs, Wahab has been in and out of the international team in all three formats and has made only thirty eight appearances for Pakistan.

27 year old Wahab has recently been part of the large contingent of Pakistanis participating in the Sri Lankan Premier League representing the Waqar Younis coached Ruhuna Royals. Whilst the Royals narrowly failed to qualify for the semi finals, Wahab’s individual performances have been consistent with the ball and he took 6 wickets for 98 runs at an economy rate of 7.

Speaking exclusively to PakPassion.net Wahab spoke of his ambitions and determination to return to the international fold and how he thinks playing in tournaments such as the Sri Lankan Premier League can help him fulfil that ambition.

“I’ve really enjoyed playing in the Sri Lankan Premier League for Ruhuna, it’s a very impressive and professional setup. The standard of cricket has been very high and also very competitive. All in all it’s been a thoroughly enjoyable experience and one that I hope I will get the opportunity to repeat in future” stated Wahab. I congratulate the organisers on the tournament and thank them for all of the hard work that they have put into the tournament."

Each of the Sri Lankan Premier League franchises has cricketers from a wide selection of countries and Wahab feels that the international flavour adds to the attraction for fans watching the tournament as well as stating that the format is one that provides the teams with an ample opportunity to succeed.

“There’s been a great camaraderie amongst the Ruhuna players despite the squad members being from all corners of the globe. That is one of the great things about playing in tournaments such as the Sri Lankan Premier League that you make new friends and your team mates are sometimes the players that you have played against in international cricket. It’s been a short stay in Sri Lanka but a very enjoyable one. The format of the competition is also a very fair one as you play each team once and the top four qualify for the semi finals and there can be no excuses from the teams that did not qualify.”

Speaking regarding his own form and a possible return to the Pakistan team Wahab stated “I’ve felt in good shape throughout the Sri Lankan Premier League and my rhythm has been good. I feel that quick bowling is about having a good rhythm and about being confident. I feel that my rhythm and confidence is back and I’m hopeful that I can make a comeback to the Pakistan team and prove my critics wrong. However I have to wait for my chance, nobody has a right to play for Pakistan, you have to perform and you have to play well and be consistent.”

“The Sri Lankan Premier League provided me with an opportunity to play some competitive cricket ahead of the Pakistan domestic season and I jumped at the chance. The games here in Sri Lanka have been very beneficial and I have generally been pleased with my form. It also gives me a head start regarding my levels of fitness when the domestic season starts. The domestic season in Pakistan is of huge importance to me as I battle to regain my place in the Pakistan team. The priority for any cricketer is to play for one’s country and I am no different. I am determined to regain my place in the Pakistan team and of course hope to do well and retain my place this time.”