Former Pakistan red-ball head coach and Australian cricket legend Jason Gillespie has heaped praise on young Pakistani all-rounder Irfan Khan Niazi, calling him the “future of Pakistan cricket.”
In a recent social media post, Gillespie endorsed the 22-year-old rising star and urged T20 franchises across the world to sign him.
“Irfan Khan is an exceptional cricketer with a fantastic personality. I have no doubt he will have a long and successful career for Pakistan,” Gillespie wrote.
“I would recommend all franchises to avail the services of Irfan Khan.”
This marks the second time Gillespie has spoken out in support of the youngster. Following the announcement of Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad, the former coach openly criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for omitting Irfan, despite his explosive batting and all-round capabilities.
“It’s unbelievable that he wasn’t included in the squad,” Gillespie said earlier this year.
“He is one of Pakistan’s best clean strikers of the ball and an excellent fielder.”
Irfan Khan is currently leading the Pakistan Shaheens in the ongoing Top End T20 Series in Darwin, Australia. In the tournament so far, he has scored 127 runs in 6 innings at a strike rate of 130.90, showcasing his consistency and leadership qualities.