Pakistan-origin Netherlands all-rounder Shariz Ahmad has expressed his heartfelt desire to play for Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), stating that representing the franchise in front of his family in Lahore would be the ultimate achievement of his cricket career. Speaking exclusively to The Nation, the Dutch international revealed that his experience with the Lahore Qalandars High Performance Programme strengthened his admiration for the franchise.
Dream to Play for Lahore Qalandars
“My ultimate goal is to play in leagues across the world, especially the Pakistan Super League for Lahore Qalandars,” Shariz said. “Being part of the Lahore Qalandars High Performance Programme was an eye-opener. I saw firsthand how professionally the franchise is run, with outstanding coaches and exceptional people working behind the scenes.”
Shariz, whose family hails from Lahore, said wearing the Lahore Qalandars jersey would carry immense emotional significance. “My entire family is from Lahore. It would be a dream come true for both me and my parents if I could play for Lahore Qalandars in Lahore in front of my family.”
Recent Performances in Domestic Cricket
The young all-rounder has backed up his ambitions with outstanding performances in the Netherlands’ premier domestic competitions while preparing for the upcoming international tri-series involving the Netherlands, Canada and the United States.
Representing VRA Cricket Club in the Topklasse, the highest level of domestic one-day cricket in the Netherlands, Shariz produced a match-winning all-round performance against Hermes DVS. He claimed 3 wickets for 54 runs in his 10 overs before scoring an unbeaten 47 to guide his team to a successful chase of 239.
Pro Series Success
He has also impressed in the Netherlands’ elite Pro Series, the country’s highest-level internal competition that serves as preparation for international assignments. Playing for the Seafarers, Shariz remained unbeaten on 61 off 55 balls against Hurricanes before following it up with another excellent knock of 78 from 77 deliveries against Royals.
Explaining the significance of the Pro Series, Shariz said around 35 to 40 of the country’s best cricketers, including national team players, centrally contracted professionals and emerging prospects, are selected and divided into three teams: Hurricanes, Royals and Seafarers. “The Pro Series is the most competitive preparation platform for Dutch players before international cricket. It brings together the best players in the country, and every performance matters,” he said.
Focus on International Tri-Series
Shariz added that his immediate objective is to continue producing match-winning performances to cement his place in the Netherlands squad ahead of the highly anticipated tri-series against Canada and the USA. “My focus right now is to perform consistently and perform big. Every innings and every spell is about preparing myself in the best possible way for the upcoming tri-series against Canada and the USA.”
