KARACHI: Any young cricketer dreams of playing international cricket and Usman Qadir is no different. However, the25-year-old intends to play for Australia and not for the country of his birth — Pakistan.
The answer to why the son of Pakistan’s former spin-legend, Abdul Qadir, wishes to representAustralia does not seem to be surprising, for the youngster only got eight first-class matches in Pakistan between 2013 and 2015.
Speaking to Geo.tv here in the metropolis, where he is playing League cricket,Qadir said: “I didn’t get much chance in Pakistan.
"Yes, I am disappointed but I don’t think much about it now. I have set my goals and I am eyeing them.”
Settled in Australia, Qadir represented Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League and has also played first-class cricket for Western Australia. Now, he has set his eyes on wearing the Australian jersey in the 2020 T20 World Cup.
“I want to play T20 World Cup for Australia next year and I am sure I will be able to get that opportunity,” he said. “I am enjoying my cricket in Australia.
"I am getting proper chances to show my skills unlike here where I had to sit on the bench,” the spinner added.
When asked why he chose Australia over Pakistan, the leggie blamed politics.
“I have a name attached with me: my father’s,” he said. “My father has always spoken the truth and that’s why I was made the scapegoat.
"I have no complaints anymore. I would have loved to play for my country but it just didn’t happen,” Qadir — who had represented Pakistan in 2012 Under-19 World Cup — said.
The young player also expressed gratitude to the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Lahore Qalandars for easing his way into Australia. “I must thank Lahore Qalandars as they helped me get the initial contracts and opportunity in Australia,” he said.