Sufiyan Muqeem: Pakistan’s Emerging Left-Arm Wrist-Spinner Shines in Zimbabwe

Sufiyan Muqeem, a 25-year-old left-arm wrist spinner from Pakistan, claimed five wickets for three runs against Zimbabwe in the second T20I, leading to the hosts’ lowest T20I score of 57. He was introduced as the sixth bowler and excelled, securing his maiden international five-wicket haul, aiding Pakistan in easily chasing the target in just 5.3 overs.

Sufiyan Muqeem, a 25-year-old left-arm wrist spinner, made headlines during the second T20I against Zimbabwe by claiming five wickets for only three runs as Zimbabwe was dismissed for a mere 57 runs, marking their lowest T20I score. Muqeem’s remarkable bowling spell took place at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, where he entered the bowling attack as the sixth option and wreaked havoc with his exceptional spin, taking five wickets in 16 deliveries. His first wickets included Ryan Burl and Tashinga Musekiwa, and he ultimately accounted for Clive Madande and Richard Ngarava, completing his maiden five-wicket haul in international cricket.

This young spinner made his T20I debut during the 2023 Asian Games against Hong Kong. Although he faced challenges during an initial tour of Australia, his performance improved significantly on Zimbabwean soil. Muqeem had previously taken three wickets in the series opener before achieving a remarkable five-wicket haul in the subsequent match. His rapid ascent to the national team is impressive, considering he had only a minimal domestic cricket background, having participated in just five Pakistan Super League matches without significant success. Nonetheless, his performance in Zimbabwe may unlock opportunities for him at higher levels of the game, possibly including first-class cricket.

Zimbabwe’s innings was completed in merely 12.4 overs, which was the first time the team scored under 60 runs in a T20I. Captain Sikandar Raza, who chose to bat first, expressed the need for his young team to enhance their performance through better batting, fielding, and bowling. The Zimbabwean openers made a promising start, but the innings rapidly deteriorated, with only Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani managing to reach double digits. Following the dismal innings, Pakistan efficiently chased down the target in just 5.3 overs, led by Saim Ayub’s unbeaten 38 runs off 18 balls and Omair Yousuf’s steady 22 runs off 15 balls.

Sufiyan Muqeem has emerged as an exceptional talent in Pakistan’s cricket landscape, distinguished by his rare left-arm wrist-spin bowling style. He is part of a transitional phase within the national team, which has seen him fast-tracked into international play despite limited domestic experience. The T20I format, which allows for impactful performances with fewer opportunities, has provided him with a platform to showcase his skills effectively, particularly during the tour of Zimbabwe where his bowling flourished.

Sufiyan Muqeem’s outstanding performance during the second T20I against Zimbabwe not only highlighted his potential as a crucial player for Pakistan but also underscored the volatility of T20 cricket where unexpected talents can emerge. His ability to dismantle the opposition with precision and skill has set the stage for possible further opportunities in his cricketing career, reinforcing the importance of nurturing young talents in the national team. As Pakistan continues to evolve, Muqeem’s contributions may play a vital role in shaping its future success in international cricket.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com