Mumbai, Dec 12 (NationPress) Spin all-rounder Shadab Khan is optimistic that a successful stint with Sydney Thunder will enable him to reclaim his position in the Pakistan squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. He expressed regret over missing the opportunity to play alongside the legendary Ravichandran Ashwin, as reported on Friday.

The 27-year-old leg-spinner has not represented Pakistan since the home T20I series against Bangladesh in June of this year due to shoulder surgery followed by an extensive rehabilitation process. He is set to embark on his fourth season in the Australian T20 league, having previously played for Sydney Sixers, Hobart Hurricanes, and Brisbane Heat, the report noted.

"This is an incredible opportunity, and I'm thrilled that several prominent Pakistani players are participating in the BBL this season," Shadab remarked during a virtual media interaction from Sydney, adding, "The league is earning recognition because of these players as well."

However, Shadab lamented the lost chance to learn from Ashwin, who was slated to play for Sydney Thunder but withdrew for fitness reasons. "It would have been fantastic to share the field with Ashwin, given his remarkable bowling skills," stated Shadab, who has faced the Indian star numerous times.

Shadab expressed satisfaction about six other Pakistani athletes competing in the latest Big Bash season. Former captain Babar Azam will represent Sydney Sixers, Shaheen Shah Afridi for Brisbane Heat, Haris Rauf for Melbourne Stars, Mohammad Rizwan and Hassan Khan for Melbourne Renegades, and Hasan Ali for Adelaide Strikers.

"Pakistani cricketers have participated in Australia before, but never in such significant numbers and never all at once," Shadab noted, excited about the unique opportunity to face some of his teammates abroad. "We have played against each other back home, but this will be our first encounter overseas. We are all eagerly anticipating it; competing against friends brings a different vibe," he said.

"Our fans are also eagerly waiting for the BBL to commence. We received tremendous support during the T20 World Cup held here in 2022. With big Pakistani names in action, we expect a lot of backing again," Shadab added.

"The BBL holds immense importance for me. It marks my return after five months. I want to seize this opportunity and make the most of it," Shadab stated. "Injuries are part of the sport — it’s not just me who suffers from them, but it is disheartening to miss playing cricket."

Shadab faces tough competition from other spinners already in contention for Pakistan, including Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, Usman Tariq, and Sufyan Muqeem for the World Cup lineup, according to the report.

The tenth edition of the T20 World Cup is scheduled from February 7 to March 8 in India and Sri Lanka.