LAHORE: Peshawar Zalmi all-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed is aiming to make a return to the national side with a strong performance in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11.
Iftikhar, who last played a T20I for Pakistan in 2024, spoke to the media ahead of the start of the tournament.
“PSL preparation is going good,” he said.
“It wouldn’t be as enjoyable without the crowd, but now we have to enjoy without them. The people of Peshawar love cricket so much that the stadium was packed during the National T20 [Cup],” he continued.
The all-rounder also rued not having fans in the stadium for the PSL 11 amid the government’s decision.
“People were waiting for the PSL match, but now the government has decided that the match will not be played in Peshawar,” said Iftikhar.
“I am a professional player, and I plan to play for Pakistan. I want to be the best all-rounder in [PSL] so that I can make a comeback into the Pakistan team,” the 35-year-old maintained.
“Every franchise works professionally. I have played for Peshawar Zalmi before. I hope I will perform well.”
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He also declined any communication regarding comeback with head coach Mike Hesson.
“There has been no contact with Mike Hesson. If I perform, everyone will see it. Performances are not hidden,” he concluded.
Overall, Iftikhar Ahmed has played 78 matches for five PSL franchises, amassing 1134 runs alongside 13 wickets.
For the unversed, PSL 11 will begin on March 26 behind closed doors across two venues, Karachi and Lahore.
The upcoming edition is to be a landmark one, featuring eight teams for the first time, including debutants Hyderabad Kingsmen and RawalPindiz.
The tournament will comprise 44 matches spread across a 39-day window.