Punjab Kings’ Afghanistan pacer Azmatullah Omarzai is determined to establish himself as a proper fast bowler for both his Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise and the national team. After being primarily known as a utility player capable of contributing with both bat and ball, Omarzai has made it clear that his ambition goes beyond being an all-rounder or a medium pacer — he wants to be recognised as a genuine fast bowler.
Omarzai’s IPL 2025 journey did not begin on a promising note, as his opening game against Gujarat Titans saw him concede 29 runs in just two overs without taking a wicket. It was far from the start he had envisioned, especially after limited opportunities with his previous team, Gujarat Titans. However, ahead of Punjab Kings’ home fixture against Lucknow Super Giants, Omarzai addressed the media with a renewed sense of purpose, emphasising his intent to make this season count as a proper pacer.
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“The team should feel that they are playing as a proper fast bowler. I don’t want to play as an all-rounder or a medium pacer. I want to work on my pace and especially on death bowling as that is an area Afghanistan have faced issues of late,” Omarzai said.
“I want to be at the top, not just in one format but across formats and become the best player for Afghanistan,” he added.
The young Afghan quick has garnered attention following his stellar international season, where he shone with both bat and ball in the Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup. Fans and analysts alike have high expectations from him, and his inclusion in the Punjab Kings pace attack alongside Arshdeep Singh and Marco Jansen brings added depth to the team. While Omarzai is expected to be an asset in the middle overs, he himself has expressed his desire to take on a more prominent role in the death overs.
As Punjab Kings gear up for their first home fixture of the IPL 2025 against Lucknow Super Giants, an inspired performance from Omarzai would not only boost his own confidence but also solidify his place as a key bowler for the franchise. Home fans will be eager to witness his redemption act on April 1.
 2025, moving beyond his role as an all-rounder to become a key asset in the pace attack.){kind=link}