Karachi: Islamabad United Brilliant middle-order batsman Sohaib Maqsood has set his sights on becoming the first player to win two ‘Player of the Tournament’ titles in the ongoing eighth season of the PSL – Pakistan Super League.
Maqsood was named the best player of the tournament while playing in 2021. Multan Sultans And also helped his team win the coveted trophy.
In a special conversation with Geo News Ahead of Islamabad’s game against Karachi Kings at the Metropolis, the 35-year-old cricketer said his team has entered every edition of the tournament and is among the favorites to win the title. He added that this year will not be different from the previous edition.
“This is my first time with Islamabad but while I was playing for other franchises as well, Islamabad United Always seen as one of the favorites to win the PSL. The team has a very good side this year too, we have top players in all fields of the game and we are confident of a good season,” added the batsman.
“Each team is looking so balanced and strong. Each has good batsmen and bowlers in their ranks and after seeing the first two games, good fielding will be crucial in this tournament if they want to win the match.
According to Shoaib, Islamabad’s brand of cricket is different from other teams and it encourages them to embrace their natural style and express themselves.
When asked, the cricketer said that he has not been given any specific role and has been told to express himself whenever he gets a chance.
In the interview, Sohaib expressed his desire to win another ‘Player of the Tournament’ title this year and become the first player to win the title twice in the PSL.
“It gives you confidence when you’re told by management to go and ‘express yourself’ rather than other things,” he said, commenting on his secret to motivation in the game.
“But expressing yourself doesn’t mean smiling at the first ball, it means choosing your natural style and playing with confidence based on your style,” he explained.
Sohaib lamented the lack of opportunities due to fitness issues but vowed to stay fit this season. He adds that they feel very vulnerable to injury because they quickly capture each other when they recover from an injury.
The Islamabad United player added, “But, I am working hard, I have changed my sleeping routine and eating habits. You need to adapt some things with age. So I will try not to be unfit this season and do well.”
To a question, the middle-order batsman said that he is proud to see the way PSL has grown as a brand.
“A few days ago, I was in Multan and the vibe there was unreal. I haven’t seen such a vibe before. It’s great to see PSL becoming a big brand.