LAHORE: Pakistan’s young opener Shamil Hussain has hit back at his critics, insisting that public opinion does not dictate his approach to the game.
Speaking during the post-match presentation after the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 11 clash between Karachi Kings and Quetta Gladiators, the 21-year-old reflected on his commitment to study and self-improvement surrounding his recent activities.
“See, as a cricketer, we always try to improve. No one has perfect technique, especially in the beginning, so you learn gradually. When I was doing well in domestic cricket, nobody questioned my batting. Now, if it doesn’t work in two innings, it is suddenly looked at badly,” Shamil said.
The left-hander emphasized the importance of self-evaluation over external noise as he navigated the early stages of his career.
“Public perception keeps changing. My job is to evaluate myself and understand what works. If I feel something is not working in future, I will change it. If something is going well, I will continue with it,” he said.
He outlined the need to maintain morale and not be open to criticism from outside.
“As a professional, I cannot change my batting based on people’s opinions. I am not here because of them and I will not be abandoned by them. My focus is on myself, my technique and improving,” he concluded.
Shamil made his international debut for Pakistan in the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh earlier this month, which the Green Shirts lost 2-1.
His introduction to international cricket was challenging, with the young batsman scoring just 10 runs in two matches – four in the series opener and six in the second.