Rishad Hossain’s debut in the Pakistan Super League had already caught plenty of attention. The young Bangladeshi leg-spinner impressed with a brilliant 3-wicket spell against Quetta Gladiators, showcasing poise, control, and a match-winning presence. But in his very next game, he went beyond that—delivering another standout performance to become the tournament’s leading wicket-taker.
Now with six wickets from two matches, Rishad is officially the top wicket-taker in PSL 2025. Representing Lahore Qalandars, the 22-year-old followed up his debut heroics with figures of 3 for 26 in Lahore’s 65-run win over Karachi Kings at the National Stadium in Karachi on Tuesday.
Defending 201, Rishad came on with the Kings trying to regroup after early losses. He made immediate impact, removing Shan Masood, Irfan Khan, and Abbas Afridi in a sharp spell that broke Karachi’s middle order and ensured a comfortable victory for Lahore.
It was a continuation of the form he showed in his debut against Quetta Gladiators at the Rawalpindi Stadium on Sunday. After being left out of Lahore’s opening match against Islamabad United, Rishad made the most of his first opportunity. Introduced into the attack in the seventh over, the wrist-spinner bowled with remarkable confidence and maturity beyond his years, finishing with impressive figures of 3 for 31 from his four overs. It was the kind of breakout performance that Bangladesh cricket fans have long been hoping to see from one of the country's brightest young talents.
Rishad’s debut was not only memorable for his on-field exploits. Speaking to Daily Sun, he shared how smoothly he has adjusted to the new environment.
“I’m really enjoying my time here. The setup is very professional, and everyone has been extremely friendly,” he said.
“Shaheen [Afridi], the captain, and even the franchise owner—they’ve all been so welcoming. I’m learning a lot just by talking to the guys, picking up little bits of knowledge and experience,” he added.
Although players are largely confined to their hotel due to security measures, Rishad said the team management has done a great job keeping the atmosphere light and engaging.
“The franchise has arranged indoor games and other recreational activities to keep us entertained,” Rishad said with a smile. “They even brought in a comedian! He’s hilarious and makes sure we’re always having fun.”
Adding a layer of comfort to his PSL journey is the presence of Lahore’s head coach, Russell Domingo—Rishad’s former national coach during his time with the Bangladesh team. Their reunion was a warm one.
“Coach Domingo was surprised to see me after a while,” Rishad smiled. “He said I’ve changed a lot. He asked about the boys back home and where everyone is now. Then he asked me what my role was here, and I just told him—same as always. I’m here to win games, take wickets, and score some quick runs. Nothing’s really different.”
And true to his word, Rishad delivered again. In just two games, he’s made a major impression in one of the world’s toughest T20 leagues—with six wickets, back-to-back match-turning spells, and a growing sense that this is only the beginning.
Source: The Daily Sun
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