Mohammad Hafeez urges domestic star to “Think Bigger Than PSL” after 101-wicket season sparks selection debate

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has weighed in on a growing debate about opportunities for domestic performers after a leading spinner publicly questioned why he has yet to be picked in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Left-arm spinner Ali Usman took to social media to highlight his remarkable achievements in Pakistan’s domestic circuit. The bowler revealed that he finished the 2025–26 domestic season as the leading wicket-taker with 101 wickets across three tournaments, while also helping his department side set a world record.

Usman also reminded fans that he previously finished as the best bowler in the 2021 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Pakistan’s premier first-class competition. Despite those accomplishments, the spinner expressed disappointment at still waiting for his first opportunity in the PSL.

“Despite these performances, I’m still waiting for an opportunity in the PSL. I just want to know what more I need to do to be considered,” Usman wrote, adding that he is ready to do whatever it takes to earn a chance in the league.

His message quickly attracted attention online, prompting Hafeez to respond with advice and encouragement. The former all-rounder acknowledged Usman’s performances but suggested that domestic players should set their ambitions beyond simply securing a PSL contract.

“Dear Ali, you are a very good left-arm spinner. I’m one of the admirers of your performances at the domestic level,” Hafeez wrote. “My suggestion to you and all other good performers is that keep your goal bigger than lucrative one… stay positive.”

Hafeez’s remarks have added fuel to an ongoing discussion among fans and analysts about whether Pakistan’s top domestic performers are receiving fair opportunities in the PSL. Critics argue that consistent performers in domestic competitions often struggle to break into the league despite impressive statistics.

The PSL, run by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), is widely regarded as the country’s biggest T20 platform and a key pathway to international cricket. However, cases like Usman’s have again raised questions about how domestic excellence is rewarded when PSL squads are formed.

For now, the spinner continues to wait for a breakthrough — while the debate about recognition for domestic performers continues to grow.