Pakistan vs New Zealand: First Look at Pak's New Bowling Sensation As T20 Series Begin In Rawalpindi

Add as a preferred source on Google

In the lead-up to the highly anticipated T20 series between Pakistan and New Zealand, all eyes are on the emerging talents within the Pakistani cricket squad.

For years Pakistan is known to be the factory of producing world-class bowlers. Amongst the array of promising players selected for the home series, three names stand out as potential game-changers with their exceptional bowling prowess.

Zaman Khan (Pacer) - 6 wickets in 9 T20Is

Zaman Khan, a dynamic pacer, has been making waves with his blistering pace and impeccable control. Hailing from Chakswari in PoK, Khan's rise through the ranks has been nothing short of meteoric.

With a smooth run-up and a round-arm slinging action that generates good pace, Zaman Khan instantly reminds fans of Sri Lankan bowling legend Lasith Malinga. Zaman has honed his skills in domestic competitions followed by successful stints with Lahore Qalandars as an understudy to the likes of Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf.

The 22-year-old pacer ensured a spot for himself in the playing 11 consistently with 26 wickets for the Qalandars over the last two seasons. This led to his international debut last year followed by squad selection to the Asia Cup as a replacement for injured Naseem Shah.

Usama Mir (wrist spinner) - 2 wickets in 3 T20Is

Usama Mir made his T20I debut during the New Zealand tour earlier this year but couldn't make the desired impact he would have liked to make in unfamiliar conditions. However, the wrist spinner looked a completely different bowler in the subsequent PSL season, showing newfound consistency with 24 wickets in 12 matches, winning the Fazal Mahmood Cap (most wickets in the tournament).

A crafty spinner known for his guile and deception, the 28-year-old brings a unique dimension to Pakistan's bowling attack. A late bloomer, who went through the grind of Pakistan domestic cricket for seasons, Usama Mir will now look to make his mark on the international stage.

Abbas Afridi - 3 wickets in 5 T20Is

Generating a pace of 145-plus clicks at will, Abbas Afridi is one of those interesting prospects, who is expected to lead the Pakistan bowling line-up in years to come. With 36 PSL wickets to his name for Multan Sultans over the last two seasons, winning the Fazal Mahmood Cap in 2023 as well. The pacer made his international debut last year, picking 3/34 against New Zealand.