Shadab Khan Hopes to Replicate LPL Form for Pakistan

Pakistan’s star all-rounder Shadab Khan has rediscovered his form in the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2024, where he is currently the leading wicket-taker.

The 25-year-old Colombo Strikers leg-spinner, who has faced criticism for his lackluster performances for Pakistan over the past year, has taken 14 wickets in six games at an impressive average of 8.64.

The resurgence of Shadab Khan in the LPL comes after a disappointing 2024 T20 World Cup, where he failed to take a single wicket. However, he has bounced back in style, showcasing his skill and confidence on the field. His standout performance came against Jaffna Kings, where he claimed 4/10, earning his second Player of the Match award in the tournament. During this match, Shadab was on the verge of a hat-trick after dismissing Avishka Fernando and Fabien Allen. Although Vijayakanth Viyaskanth survived the hat-trick ball due to a review, Shadab was convinced it was out.

“I think that was out, think it was a technology problem. I think it was out,” Shadab said after the game. “I think the pitch was a bit slower, but we just had to stick to our plans. The pitch is definitely helping the spinners, especially when bowling in good areas.”

Reflecting on his recent form, Shadab added,

I struggled in the last three months, but that’s the beauty of cricket, suddenly you start performing and hopefully, that continues with Pakistan as well.

Shadab’s hat-trick on his LPL debut earlier this month against Kandy Falcons was another highlight of his tournament. He dismissed captain Wanindu Hasaranga, Salman Ali Agha, and Pavan Rathnayake to achieve the feat, finishing with figures of 4/22.