Taha, Saqib reflect on Test debut after impressive performances against Sri Lanka

Pakistan batter Muhammad Taha and fast bowler Saqib Khan have shared their experiences of making their Test debuts during the ongoing first Test against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi.

Speaking on the PCB Podcast programme Street Drive with Salman Butt, the two debutants reflected on their journeys to international cricket and discussed their performances in the opening Test.

Taha made an impressive start to his Test career, scoring 51 off 105 deliveries, including six boundaries, while batting at number three on the opening day. Meanwhile, Saqib made an impact with the ball on the second day, claiming two wickets in 10.1 overs.

The right-arm pacer dismissed Sri Lanka’s experienced batter Dinesh Chandimal and opener Lahiru Udara, who scored 42 runs.

Reflecting on his journey to Test cricket, Taha said he began his career with club cricket before progressing through pathway cricket and representing Pakistan at the Under-19 level.

“I feel really good about my journey to Test cricket. When I went out to bat against Sri Lanka, my only thought was to play the way I had performed in domestic cricket,” Taha said.

He added that spending time at the crease gradually helped him overcome the pressure, while first-class cricket had taught him the skills required to bat for longer periods.

Taha also acknowledged the encouragement he received from Pakistan captain Babar Azam during his innings.

Meanwhile, Saqib revealed that his cricketing journey began with tape-ball cricket before he joined an academy to pursue hard-ball cricket.

The fast bowler highlighted his experience of bowling long spells in domestic cricket, particularly his impressive performance in the 2025 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, where he claimed 47 wickets for Karachi Blues.

Saqib said he hoped to deliver an even better performance on the third day of the Rawalpindi Test.

“The wicket is offering movement off a hard length, and we will try to bowl well and dismiss Sri Lanka in the first session,” he said.

He also credited Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Abbas for helping him develop his understanding of fast bowling.