As Peshawar Zalmi continue to grapple with early setbacks in the tenth edition of the Pakistan Super League, former Pakistan pacer Sohail Tanvir has offered an interesting observation regarding what may be contributing to their bowling struggles this season.
Pointing to the franchise’s team composition, Sohail Tanvir has highlighted the absence of an experienced fast bowler as a key reason behind their bowling woes in PSL X.
Speaking on a talk show, the left-armer reflected on the pressures faced by young pacers like Ali Raza, who, at just 17 years old, has been thrust into high-pressure T20 scenarios without the presence of a seasoned campaigner to guide him through. His comments came after Raza endured a tough outing against Islamabad, conceding 45 runs in just 3 overs.
“As a 16- or 17-year-old bowler, it is difficult to come back after getting hit for boundaries,” said Sohail Tanvir. “Had there been an experienced fast bowler with Ali Raza in that game, he would’ve talked to him and advised him.”
While acknowledging Babar Azam’s presence as captain, Sohail Tanvir stressed that guidance in the heat of a T20 game—especially for a raw fast bowler—often needs to come from someone who understands the nuances of the craft.
“Babar Azam was there, but a batter cannot guide you like that,” he added. “Peshawar do not have that kind of bowler in their squad.”
The statement draws attention to a broader structural issue within Zalmi’s squad. Peshawar has conceded scores in excess of 200 in each of their games, with their pacers especially leaking runs. Alzari Joseph, Mohammad Ali, and Ali Raza have been carved up at will by batters on friendly tracks, leaving Zalmi at the bottom of the PSL table. The absence of Nahid Rana has also hurt their cause, as the bowling unit as a whole has looked suspect throughout.
As Zalmi prepare for Multan Sultans later this week, the spotlight will remain firmly on how their bowling unit responds—and whether management takes note of the call for experience to complement youth in future campaigns.
Prosports.pk brings you the latest updates from the world of PSL! Stay updated with the latest PSL X points table, PSL X Squads, PSL X Schedule, PSL Live Score & Much more!