Good to see pacers in IPL from Afghanistan: Naveen-ul-Haq

Naveen-ul-Haq was bought by LSG [Source: Twitter]

Afghan cricket has been a breeding ground for spinners, however lately it has been witnessing a boom in fast bowlers. The likes of Fazalhaq Farooqi, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Naveen-ul-Haq have managed to crave their own niche. Naveen, who is currently playing for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2022-23 was snapped up by the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL 2023 mini-auction.

Speaking to Cricbuzz, the Afghanistan pacer remained hopeful of getting picked up by the franchises after being unsold in the first round of bidding. The 23-year-old further stated that the inclusion of himself and other fast bowling in the IPL is good news for aspiring bowlers back home. 

"Every player has a dream to play in IPL but more than my dream it was my parents' dream to see me playing in the IPL and I'm happy to fulfill that.

Yes, it's a good sign that two pace bowlers are there in the IPL from Afghanistan. Because earlier spinners (from Afghanistan) used to play everywhere The more seam bowlers will play in tournaments like IPL, it will help to grow interest back home,"

Naveen, however, has pulled out of the upcoming edition of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2023 citing personal reasons, after being drafted in by Quetta Gladiators last month. 

Also Read: Shocked and disappointed: Sandeep Sharma on being unsold