“Don’t pluck unripe fruit”: Hasan Ali urges patience with emerging Pakistan talent
By Nawaz Gohar ; Experienced Test pacer Hasan Ali has echoed the concerns of Pakistan T20I captain Salman Ali Agha, warning against the premature promotion of young cricketers to the international arena.
Speaking at a press conference at the National Bank Stadium on Sunday evening, the Karachi Kings veteran urged the cricket board to wait until players are fully “mature” before handing them a national cap.
Drawing a vivid comparison, Hasan expressed that rushing youngsters into the national side is akin to plucking fruit before it is ready. “We are in too much of a hurry to play our youth,” Hasan stated. “We play them like unripe fruit. A player should only be given the opportunity when they have reached full maturity in their game.”
Addressing his own career and recent form, Hasan drew parallels with national star Mohammad Rizwan, emphasizing his singular focus on the sport. “Like Rizwan Bhai, I don’t know anything other than cricket. This game is my passion, and I want to continue making my name through performance,” he said.
The pacer also dismissed frequent social media chatter regarding his retirement after minor dips in form. “Questions about retirement arise after just a few bad games. I am constantly learning and I am confident that I will make a comeback to the national team through strong performances.”
Hasan reminded critics of his consistency in the domestic circuit, citing his record as the most successful bowler in Pakistan Super League history. “I have to prove myself every single day. My record of 137 PSL wickets—the highest in the league—is a testament to the fact that whenever I get the chance, I deliver. I am working hard to ensure I earn my spot back in the Pakistan squad.”
Reflecting on Karachi Kings’ recent struggles, Hasan admitted that the team failed to capitalize on their early momentum from the Lahore leg of the tournament. “The truth is, after winning three matches in Lahore, we haven’t played good cricket in Karachi, losing four on the trot. We have struggled across all three departments,” he conceded.
However, he was quick to defend the team’s composition in the absence of their regular leader. “This is Karachi Kings, not just ‘David Warner’s team.’ While Warner is a match-winner, we do not rely solely on him. Every player in this squad is a potential match-winner.”
In a closing note to fans, the pacer promised the return of his trademark “Generator” celebration. “I will be starting my celebration style again after taking wickets,” he added with a smile.
