KARACHI: Islamabad United all-rounder Faheem Ashraf has responded to former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez’s comments about the Pakistan Super League (PSL), offering a firm defense of the players’ decisions and the league’s wider structure.
Faheem addressed the issue during a recent press conference, where he also reflected on the growing talk of players opting out of the PSL and its impact on Pakistan cricket.
He countered the narrative by suggesting that such decisions are often personal, but are often viewed through a broad lens that doesn’t reflect the realities players face.
“He was like that when he was playing in the PSL, but now he’s gone. It’s not personal, but decisions like this can affect the future of our cricket, even if it doesn’t affect us directly,” Faheem said.
His comments came in response to Hafeez’s recent comments in a local media interview, which seemed to take a subtle dig at the ongoing hype surrounding franchise cricket.
“The whistle will blow again – the stage will be set again – the promoted superstars will come out – because our foundation is the PSL,” Hafeez said.
Faheem, however, pushed back against a broad interpretation of such views, insisting that players should be allowed to make personal life decisions without harming the system.
He further emphasized the importance of focusing on long-term development and securing opportunities for young cricketers coming up the ranks.
“Our PSL will continue and players like us will progress, but for the younger generation, we need to protect and secure things better so they face less challenges,” he said.
“It may be personal for some people, but for Pakistan cricket and the future, especially for the upcoming players, whatever we do should benefit them and the game as a whole,” he added.
He drew comparisons with former Pakistan greats, emphasized the importance of individuality and carving one’s own path in international cricket.
Ashraf clarified that while learning from senior players is valuable, every cricketer has a unique role, identity and journey.
“I don’t consider myself close to him or far from him. Each individual has their own place, their own role, their own experience – and no one can truly match that. You have your own identity, everyone else has,” Faheem said.
He further underlined that he is focused on building his own legacy rather than being compared to former stars like Abdul Razak and Azhar Mahmood, insisting that time and performances will ultimately define his career.
“I have my own name – I am Faheem, I cannot be Abdul Razak or Azhar Mahmood. In time, people will decide what is good and bad, but my focus is on doing what is best for Pakistan,” he said.