RAWALPINDI: Top-order wicketkeeper batter Muhammad Akhlaq on Tuesday, revealed that he was approached by the United States of America Cricket Association (USACA) to represent them on professional level.
Akhlaq, who is representing Dolphins in the ongoing Champions T20 Cup, shared that he received an offer from the associate cricket nation, which he turned down due to his commitment towards Pakistan.
“Yes, I was offered by the US but obviously, I planned my whole life to play for Pakistan,” said Akhlaq.
“My mindset is that I have to play all my cricket for Pakistan and in Pakistan. I will get whatever is in my fate so, I have no plans to leave the country,” he added.
Akhlaq also asserted that it is tougher to be selected in the national team as a wicketkeeper batter, citing the exclusiveness of the role.
“Obviously there is only one option for the wicketkeeper in the team, so the selection process is tougher but in white-ball cricket nowadays, even part-time wicketkeeper batters get the job done. It is tough, but I am working hard to achieve it,” said Akhlaq.
Muhammad Akhlaq reflected on his experience of playing under the mentorship of former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed in the ongoing tournament and shared that he is honing his wicketkeeping skills by working with the 37-year-old.
“Yes, [Sarfaraz] is working with me, he is guiding me a lot about wicketkeeping and I’m working on it,” said Akhlaq.
“And I am hopeful, that my experience of wicketkeeping will increase day by day. So, I am enjoying a lot working with him,” he concluded.
Arfa Feroz Zake
