Hundred and Hat-Trick in Final: Can This All-Rounder Become Pakistan’s Next Big Superstar?

Pakistan cricket has long been on the lookout for a genuine pace-bowling all-rounder, a role that has remained largely unfulfilled since the days of Abdul Razzaq and Azhar Mahmood.

Pakistan put their trust in Anwar Ali and Bilawal Bhatti for a brief time in the early 2010’s but that move did not pay off due to a number of reasons, including injuries and failure to perform consistently at the top level.

Late 2010’s saw the potential emergence of Faheem Ashraf, who showed signs of replicating the earlier success of Razzaq and Azhar. From making his debut in Pakistan’s triumphant Champions Trophy 2017 success to being a footnote 7 years later, Faheem’s stocks plummeted as he could not repay the faith of the multiple selectors and team management.

While Faheem Ashraf’s recent inclusion in the ODI squad for the Champions Trophy was not well received by the fans, it also highlights the incredible dearth of options in this department for Pakistan cricket.

As Pakistan looks to fill the pace bowling all-rounder role in their national setup, a new name has emerged on the domestic circuit: Mohammad Shahzad. The 22-year-old has been nothing short of sensational in the ongoing President’s Trophy, making a strong case for himself as a future star, at least in the longer format.

Playing his second first-class season, Shahzad has been mighty impressive and has shown signs of becoming an international level player. While it’s still early to say where his career takes him, he definitely has the potential to play at the top level, given he is taken care of by the Pakistan Cricket Board.

Stellar Performances in the President’s Trophy

Shahzad’s performances in the President’s Trophy and particularly the Final have been immaculate.

He scored a brilliant 125 runs and took 5-29, including a hattrick to dismiss Umar Amin, Fawad Alam and Mohammad Irfan Khan, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure with both bat and ball, as he contributed massively to PTV’s 3 wicket win over SBP in the final of the President’s Trophy.

His overall stats in the tournament are equally impressive: 705 runs at an average of 58.75, including three centuries and four fifties, along with 20 wickets at an average of 20.85, including a five-wicket haul. These numbers are a testament to his consistency and versatility, qualities that are rare in modern cricket.

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A Promising Background

Shahzad’s cricketing journey is rooted in his passion for the game and his admiration for legends like Mohammad Yousaf, Babar Azam, and Imran Khan.

Having represented Pakistan in two U19 World Cups (2020 and 2022), he has already experienced the pressures of international cricket at a junior level. His ability to perform in high-stakes matches, such as the President’s Trophy final, indicates a maturity beyond his years.

Why Pakistan Needs Shahzad

The lack of a reliable pace-bowling all-rounder has been a glaring issue for Pakistan. Faheem Ashraf’s return to the ODI setup for the Champions Trophy underscores the PCB’s struggle to find a long-term solution.

Shahzad, with his all-round abilities, could be the answer to this problem. However, it is crucial not to rush him into the national team. Instead, the PCB should focus on grooming him over the next year, providing him with the necessary resources and opportunities to develop into an international-caliber player.

The Bigger Picture

While Shahzad’s potential is undeniable, the PCB must also work on creating a talent pool of similar players. The Champions Trophy 2025 has exposed Pakistan’s vulnerabilities, with the team failing to win a single match in the group stage.

As the country hosted its first major ICC tournament in decades, and failing at the first hurdle, the need for a stronger, more balanced squad has never been more apparent. Developing players like Shahzad is not just about filling a gap; it’s about building a team capable of competing at the highest level.

The Importance of Nurturing

Mohammad Shahzad’s performances in the President’s Trophy have been a breath of fresh air for Pakistan cricket. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a rare talent, one that the PCB cannot afford to overlook.

While it may be too early to call him up to the national team, investing in his development could pay dividends in the long run. With the right guidance and opportunities, Shahzad has the potential to become a cornerstone of Pakistan cricket for years to come.

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