Mohammad Ali, the 31-year-old right-arm medium-fast bowler from Sialkot, has emerged as a breakout star in the recently concluded Pakistan Super League (PSL 2024). His impressive performances with the Multan Sultans have sparked the question: Does he deserve a spot in Pakistan’s national limited-overs team?
Ali’s statistics speak for themselves. He finished as the second highest wicket-taker in PSL 2024, claiming 16 wickets in just nine matches. This included two brilliant spells of 3/19 – one against arch-rivals Quetta Gladiators and the other against Islamabad United. His overall economy rate of 7.56 and an average of 17.12 highlight his consistency and ability to restrict runs.
Beyond the raw numbers, Ali impressed with his controlled aggression and ability to take wickets at crucial junctures. His 3/23 in Multan’s opening game against Karachi Kings set the tone for their winning campaign. He also showcased his wicket-taking prowess against Lahore Qalandars (2/28) and Peshawar Zalmi (2/23).
Ali’s emergence comes at a crucial time for Pakistan. With the New Zealand tour featuring three T20Is scheduled for April, the selectors are looking for fresh talent to bolster the national squad. Mohammad Ali, already a Test player with two caps against England in 2022, could be a valuable addition.
His PSL performances demonstrate his ability to thrive under pressure in the shorter format. While his lack of experience in international T20s remains a factor, the selectors might be tempted to give him a chance based on his current form.
Will Mohammad Ali receive the coveted call-up for the New Zealand series? Only time will tell. However, his dominant display in the PSL has undoubtedly put him on the national team’s radar, making him a name to watch in the upcoming months.
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