Sahibzada Farhan shines again, but PCB still overlooks his consistency
Sahibzada Farhan once again reminded everyone of his quality and calmness under pressure. In the final T20I against Bangladesh, he played a match-winning knock of 63 runs off 41 balls and was named Player of the Match. Despite this brilliant performance, Farhan’s journey with the national team remains puzzling and frustrating. Every time he is given a chance, he delivers. Yet, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) continues to sideline him.
Farhan’s limited chances in international cricket
In the last series against Bangladesh, Sahibzada Farhan played only two matches. In one of them, he scored 74 runs and won the Man of the Match award. However, instead of being rewarded with more opportunities, he was once again benched. The recent series followed the same script. He was rested for the first two T20s, where Pakistan’s openers failed to provide a solid start.
When Farhan finally returned for the third match, he looked composed and confident. He played proper cricketing shots and never looked rushed. He took calculated risks and helped Pakistan reach a match-winning total of 178. Once again, he was named Player of the Match.
A proven performer in PSL and domestic cricket
Farhan is not a one-match wonder. He has been among the top run-scorers in Pakistan’s domestic circuit for years. In the Pakistan Super League (PSL), he has played several impactful innings. Whether it’s List A, T20, or First-Class cricket, his name often appears in the top performers’ list. He has also captained domestic sides and shown leadership qualities. Still, the national selectors continue to overlook his consistent performances. Many other players with less impressive domestic records have received more chances.
Pakistan’s struggle with opening combinations
Pakistan has long struggled with finding a reliable opening pair. In the last two T20Is of this series, the top order collapsed early. This put unnecessary pressure on the middle order, leading to two heavy defeats. When Farhan was finally given a chance, he immediately resolved that problem. He provided a solid base and made stroke play look easy on a slightly difficult pitch. His partnership with Saim Ayub gave Pakistan the momentum they needed.
PCB must make smart, performance-based selections
Sahibzada Farhan has done everything a player can do to prove his worth. He has performed in PSL, domestic, and international matches. He has scored runs under pressure, and has even been the match-winner multiple times. PCB must stop ignoring talent like Farhan. The team needs consistent performers, especially at the top of the order. Bench strength is built through trust, not just by picking names.
Farhan is 29. He is in the prime of his career. If PCB continues to waste his best years on the bench, it will be another classic case of Pakistan cricket mismanaging a fine player.
Final thoughts
Sahibzada Farhan doesn’t need to prove anything anymore. His bat has done the talking every time he gets the opportunity. PCB must now respond with action. It’s time to back players who deliver — not just pick names on reputation. Farhan deserves a proper, consistent run in the side.
Also read this : https://cric92.com/blogs/pakistan-end-on-a-high-in-final-t20-bangladesh-take-series-2-1/