Islamabad United opener Sameer Minhas celebrates scoring a fifty during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) match against Rawalpindi at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan on April 4, 2026. — PCB

KARACHI: Islamabad United opener Samir Minhas is confident of his long-term success at the highest level, saying his ambitions go beyond franchise cricket as he aims to make it to the Pakistan national team.

In an interview with Geo News, the young batsman, who is getting valuable exposure in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL), believes that the competition has played an important role in shaping his growth and preparing him for international challenges.

“The team is putting in a really good effort and a lot of players are contributing well,” Sameer reflected on the current PSL season.

Discussing his personal goals, the promising opener emphasized simplicity and clarity in his approach.

“My goal is simple: whenever I get an opportunity, I want to make the most of it and play a productive innings for my team,” he said.

Sameer, who has already represented Pakistan at Under-19 level, highlighted the importance of sharing the dressing room with experienced players as one of the biggest advantages of playing in the PSL.

“You learn a lot by being around senior players. From game awareness to improving your skills, there’s a lot you can pick up. I’ve spoken to many players and gained valuable insights,” he added.

While many considered the PSL a stepping stone to international cricket, Sameer maintained a composed outlook.

“I don’t think much about how beneficial it is, but yes, you definitely learn a lot here,” he said.

Looking ahead, Sameer made it clear that his long-term ambition aligns with every aspiring Pakistani cricketer.

“Everyone’s goal is to play for Pakistan, serve the country for a long time and win trophies. That is my aim. For now, I want to take every opportunity and when the time comes, I can perform for Pakistan,” he said.

Recalling his Under-19 journey, Sameer shared that he always focused on team success rather than individual recognition.

“I didn’t really think about focus. We focused on winning for Pakistan. Winning the Asia Cup was a major target for us and we achieved it. Unfortunately, we couldn’t go all the way in the World Cup, but our mindset was always to bring trophies to the country,” he noted.

He also expressed his desire to replicate his junior-level success at the highest level.

“It is every player’s dream to perform for Pakistan at the highest level. That is my intention, Inshallah, I will continue to work towards it,” he said.

Regarding camaraderie and intra-team competition, Sameer revealed that discussions with teammates play a vital role in improvement.

“We talk regularly, practice together at the nets, point out each other’s strengths and weaknesses. It helps us improve as players,” he concluded.

Byzan Lakhani

Faizan Lakhani is Associate Editor (Sports) at Geo News.

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