Ihsanullah takes U-turn on retirement, PSL boycott

Pakistani pacer Ihsanullah has taken back his decision to boycott the Pakistan Super League (PSL), saying, he made the statement "in the heat of the moment".

"I made the statement in the heat of the moment," he said during an interview with a private media outlet.

Backtracking on his decision to retire, Ihsan expressed determination to make a comeback and also apologised to his franchise. "I made the statement out of frustration. Now, I aim to work hard and secure my place in the tournament, which is still four months away."

Earlier in the day, it was reported that the fast-bowler had announced that he would not participate in the PSL after being overlooked by all franchises at the draft for the upcoming tenth season of the tournament. "I boycott the PSL because the world and people are selfish" he had said.

"No one has contacted me. Ali Tareen moves on to others when he finds someone new. He was supporting my talent, not me," the pacer was quoted as saying.

It merits a mention that Ihsanullah has been struggling with an elbow injury for more than two years, which has affected his career.

His previous team, Multan Sultans, has also not retained him in the upcoming season of the PSL.

It was the pacer's impressive performance for Multan that led to his debut for the Pakistan national team in the ODI series against New Zealand in April 2023. However, after the injury, he was unable to play the second match.

Over his PSL career with Multan Sultans, Ihsanullah played 14 matches and took 23 wickets.

"We didn't retain Ihsanullah because of his injury. Our focus is always on working with stakeholders to improve the league," Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen had on Monday said while confirming that Ihsanullah was not picked due to his injury.