VIDEO: Naseem Shah responds to fans asking for match tickets

With cricketing fans rushing to secure tickets for the upcoming tri-nation series as well as Champions Trophy, Pakistani pacer Naseem Shah’s response to those asking for match tickets has gone viral over the internet.

“Brothers! We get only 3 or 4 tickets… and there are hundreds of people asking for them. Please don't be upset with us. Sometimes, we even have to refuse our family members,” Shah said on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) podcast Friday.

He added it was a tough spot they were in and couldn’t make everyone happy. “So please, don't ask for tickets.”

During the podcast, the star fast bowler also shared a personal anecdote from his tween years. Shah recalled that when he was 12 or 13 and playing cricket in Lahore, a man watching him bowl said he could play first-class cricket at that age.

“My father allowed me to play for a month or so, saying that if it worked out, great, but if not, I would return to school.”

Shah also shared how first-class cricketer Salman Qadir predicted his future success, which motivated him to work hard. “I reached here after a lot of hard work,” Shah said, adding that coming back from rehab was also very challenging for any player.

On pressure of bowling with a new ball, he said, “It is crucial to take wickets with the new ball. I strive to bowl with discipline in One-Day cricket.”

About tailenders, Shah said it could be frustrating for bowlers when tailenders build partnerships. “I try to focus on building partnerships as well when I am batting.”

The 21-year-old pacer also revealed that he was working on his batting at the club level, aiming to improve and avoid getting out quickly. “I have been playing as an opener in club matches to prepare for the upcoming Champions Trophy.”

It may be noted that Shah is a part of the 15-member squad announced by the PCB for both the upcoming tri-nation series between Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa, and the 2025 Champions Trophy.

The tri-nation series will be played in Lahore and Karachi from Feb 8 to Feb 14, whereas the mega ICC tournament is to be hosted by the country from Feb 19 till Mar 9.