KARACHI: The Pakistan Super League (PSL) team Islamabad United’s fast bowler Rumman Raees wants to payback his franchise for the support throughout his struggling phase.
In an exclusive interview to Geo News, the 31-year-old pacer said he wants to give his best and win every game for the team.
Rumman has long been associated with Islamabad United and 2022 was the only season when he donned another team’s, Multan Sultans, jersey since he made his debut for United. When Rumman was out due to injury, United made him bowling consultant to ensure his presence in cricket environment.
“It was a very morale boosting support to me. When a player gets such an overwhelming support from his team, his confidence gets high and he becomes more passionate about the team he is representing,” Rumman said.
“I am feeling much better and it is good to be back in competitive cricket,” said Rumman – who had missed the last domestic season due to an ankle injury he sustained during the Kashmir Premier League.
The fast bowler said that his body is feeling much better and he is eager to give his best in this PSL. He also expressed confidence that Islamabad United will win the PSL title for the record third time.
“We are feeling confident as a team for good results. The environment is very positive and such positivity is very important because winning or losing a game is part of sport, what matters the most is dressing room environment,” he said.
Rumman mentioned that his role in the team is divided in two parts – one is to lead the attack with the new ball and other is to do well in the death overs.
“When I am bowling with new ball, I aim to bowl within stumps and when I am bowling death overs, I opt for yorkers and slower-ones,” he said.
“It is important for a bowler to execute his skills and if one is not able to do that then he must revisit his game plan and see where he is lacking. I do not target long-term goals, I go match by match and ball by ball. At this stage, I am aiming to win matches for Islamabad with my good bowling,” he added.
Replying to his question, Rumman said that his cool-and-calm celebration following any wicket is a reflection of his personality.
“It is very important to stay calm because if you’re calm then it improves your decision-making ability,” said the fast bowler when asked about his celebration style which is opposite to how usually most of fast bowlers celebrate.
Faizan Lakhani Faizan Lakhani is Deputy Editor (Sports) at Geo News.