ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Television Shamyl Hussain has set a new benchmark in Pakistan’s domestic cricket by securing the record for the most sixes hit by an opener across both red-ball and white-ball first-class competitions this season.
Hussain dominated the President’s Cup Grade-I white-ball tournament, finishing as one of the top scorers while leading the charts with 22 sixes.
The young opener narrowly edged out OGDCL’s Maaz Sadaqat, who recorded 21 sixes, and teammate Taimur Khan, who followed with 17.
Most by an opener
Hussain’s aggressive form translated seamlessly into the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Pakistan’s premier red-ball competition, where he cleared the boundary 19 times – the most by an opener.
Reflecting on his high-impact style, Hussain recently explained to Pakistan TV Digital that he views his role differently than the traditional “anchor” opener.
“My approach is a bit different; I want to show the world my ability and enjoy the game rather than playing it like a job,” Hussain said.
The PTV star emphasized that his confidence comes from a desire to “express himself on any stage,” whether in domestic leagues or national-level four-day matches.
‘Dominating style’
Speaking about Shamyl’s style, cricket analyst Shahid Hashmi told Pakistan TV Digital, “I have been watching Shamyl since the Pakistan Junior League, and he has impressed everyone with his dominating style of cricket.”
“The difference between him and others is that he looks more confident at the crease than others and judges the ball well before time, and that is why he can hit sixes and fours right from the get-go.”
Hashmi said, “Shamyl has proper shots and doesn’t slog with eyes closed, but knows what shot and which area he is playing.”
“Shamyl has a bright future considering he continues to progress and keeps his feet on the ground”, the analyst said.
Shamyl's power-hitting prowess extends to the global stage, as he currently holds the highest sixes count among the top 25 first-class run-scorers worldwide this year.
By achieving this international feat, Hussain has surpassed established international stars, including India’s KL Rahul and KK Nair, as well as Pakistan’s Test captain Shan Masood.
