Shamyl Hussain addresses critics after slow start to international career Pakistan’s young opener Shamyl Hussain has defended his approach to cricket amid criticism of his recent performances, stressing the importance of self-evaluation over external opinions. The 21-year-old spoke during a post-match press conference following the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 11 clash between Karachi Kings and Quetta Gladiators. He acknowledged the scrutiny he has faced but emphasized his focus on personal growth rather than public feedback. Hussain, who made his international debut earlier this month in a three-match One Day International (ODI) series against Bangladesh, described the transition to professional cricket as challenging. He noted that while his domestic performances had not drawn criticism, recent results in international matches have led to increased scrutiny. “As a cricketer, we are always trying to improve. No one has a perfect technique, especially at the start, so you learn gradually,” he said. “When I performed well in domestic cricket, no one questioned my batting. Now, if it doesn’t work in a couple of innings, it is suddenly seen as bad.” The left-handed batsman highlighted the need for mental resilience and self-assessment in navigating the pressures of a professional career. “Public opinion keeps changing. My job is to assess myself and understand what is working. If I feel something won’t work in the future, I will change it. If something is going well, I will continue with it,” he explained. He also reiterated his commitment to maintaining focus on his own development rather than external criticism. “ As a professional, I cannot change my batting based on people’s opinions. I did not reach here because of them, and I will not be dropped because of them.#pakistan_super_league #one_day_international #quetta_gladiators #karachi_kings #shamyl_hussain
Shamyl Hussain, the 21-year-old Quetta Gladiators opener, made a stunning impact on his Pakistan Super League (PSL) debut by scoring a 21-ball half-century in a high-scoring match against Karachi Kings. The second game of PSL 2026 took place at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, where Quetta captain Saud Shakeel opted to bat first, setting a target of 181-7. The innings was anchored by Moeen Ali’s unbeaten 48, supported by contributions of 35 and 30 from David Warner and Saad Baig. In the chase, Shakeel and Hussain formed a formidable opening partnership. Hussain, playing his first PSL game, showcased explosive form from the outset. On the second ball he faced, he launched a powerful punch through cover for a boundary, then followed it up with a six four deliveries later. His aggression continued with a four down the ground and a six over midwicket. By the sixth over, Hussain was in full flow, hitting three fours and a six off the same bowler, the latter bringing up his rapid half-century in just 21 balls. His innings ended with a boundary off Salman Agha, leaving him at 55 off 21 deliveries. Hussain’s performance was a standout moment in the match, highlighting his ability to strike under pressure. His half-century came off the bat of Mir Hamza, who had earlier dismissed him in the first over. The young batsman’s aggressive approach and composure under pressure made him a key figure in Quetta’s chase. The 21-year-old has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket, having been retained by Quetta Gladiators for 84 lakh rupees for the 2026 PSL season. His domestic credentials include 899 runs in nine Quaid-e-Azam Trophy matches and 452 runs in nine President’s One-Day Cup games.#pakistan_super_league #gaddafi_stadium #quetta_gladiators #karachi_kings #shamyl_hussain
Quetta Gladiators vs Hyderabad Kingsmen LIVE Score, PSL 2026: Shamyl Finds Two Sixes, Completes Fifty | QG - 101/2 (12) The Quetta Gladiators and Hyderabad Kingsmen are locked in a high-stakes clash in the Pakistan Super League 2026, with both teams aiming to secure their first points of the season. The match, held at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, has seen a mix of aggressive batting and disciplined bowling as the Gladiators look to build momentum. Shamyl Hussain has been the standout performer, showcasing his ability to adapt to the conditions and deliver crucial runs. Shamyl’s innings began with a strong start, as he targeted the left-arm spinner Hassan Khan, launching him over the ropes with two powerful sixes. This moment marked the completion of his half-century, which came after he had initially slowed his approach following the loss of early wickets. His ability to rotate the strike and keep the scoreboard ticking has been vital for the Gladiators, who are navigating a challenging powerplay phase. The Hyderabad Kingsmen bowlers, led by Riley Meredith and Maheesh Theekshana, have maintained a tight grip on the innings, forcing the Gladiators to play cautiously. However, the pressure on the Gladiators intensified when Saud Shakeel was dismissed for a pull shot that took a top edge, caught by Hammad Azam. This loss of wickets has shifted the balance, with the Kingsmen now looking to capitalize on the Gladiators’ vulnerability. Hasan Nawaz has played a key role in stabilizing the Gladiators’ innings, finding the boundary with two sixes off Marnus Labuschagne’s over. His partnership with Shamyl has provided a much-needed boost, allowing the team to recover from the early setbacks.#saud_shakeel #gaddafi_stadium #quetta_gladiators #hyderabad_kingsmen #shamyl_hussain
