BBL Opportunity for Zaman Khan While Pakistan National Team Keeps Him Out

BBL Picks Zaman Khan as Shaheen Afridi’s Replacement, But Pakistan Ignores Him

By Sports Desk Jan 09, 2026

BBL Opportunity for Zaman Khan While Pakistan National Team Keeps Him Out

The Big Bash League (BBL) franchise Brisbane Heat has recently announced the signing of Zaman Khan as a replacement player, creating excitement among fans and cricket analysts

Brisbane Heat Picks Zaman Khan as Replacement: What It Means for the Young Pakistani Fast Bowler

The Big Bash League (BBL) franchise Brisbane Heat has recently announced the signing of Zaman Khan as a replacement player, creating excitement among fans and cricket analysts. Zaman, a promising young fast bowler from Pakistan, has been recognized for his raw pace, ability to bowl accurate yorkers, and potential to excel in T20 cricket.

Why Zaman Khan Was Picked

Brisbane Heat signed Zaman Khan following the unavailability of one of their overseas fast bowlers. The team management highlighted his youthful energy, pace, and variety in the death overs as key reasons for bringing him into the squad. Known for his aggressive bowling style and ability to generate bounce, Zaman is expected to strengthen the Heat’s bowling attack and provide strategic options in T20 matches.

Zaman Khan’s Potential

Despite his young age, Zaman Khan has impressed in domestic T20 tournaments and Pakistan’s emerging cricket circuits. Analysts note:

  • He consistently bowls above 140 km/h, making him a genuine pace threat.

  • He has shown skill in executing slower balls and Yorkers, crucial in the death overs.

  • His composure under pressure in domestic matches suggests he could adapt quickly to franchise T20 leagues.

These attributes make him an attractive option for international T20 leagues, even if he has not yet been a regular feature in Pakistan’s senior T20 lineup.

Why Pakistan Is Not Considering Him in the Playing XI

Despite his potential, Zaman Khan has yet to secure a consistent place in the Pakistan national T20 XI. Possible reasons include:

  • Competition for fast-bowling spots: Pakistan currently has an established group of pacers, including Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Haris Rauf, making it challenging for newcomers to break in.

  • Limited international exposure: While he has excelled in domestic tournaments, Zaman has only a few appearances in high-pressure international matches.

  • Team strategy and experience: National selectors often prefer experienced players for crucial T20 fixtures, especially in death overs, where tactical execution is key.

Conclusion

Brisbane Heat’s decision to pick Zaman Khan provides the young pacer with a golden opportunity to showcase his skills on a big stage. Success in the BBL could accelerate his pathway into Pakistan’s senior T20 squad and make him a key contender for upcoming international tournaments. For now, the cricketing world will watch closely as Zaman Khan takes his chance in one of the most competitive T20 leagues in the world.