For the first time in the history of the Indian Premier League, The 2020 season which is to be held in UAE from the 19 of September will feature an American cricketer in the form of Ali Khan. The 29-year old Speedster is all set to replace the Kolkata knight Riders pacer Harry Gurney, who pulled himself out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury.
The Right-arm pacer was part of the Caribbean Premier League 2020 winners Trinbago Knight Riders who managed to win the league unbeaten in 12 matches played including the play-offs. Ali Khan played a vital role for the Riders by picking up eight wickets in the same number of the matches played and also did a very good job in containing the batsman.
The 29-year old expressed his delight in an interview with Sportstar and also explained how much it meant for him to represent such an elite club and how it would help him advance to the next level in his career.
“First of all, it’s a great honor to be the only USA player in the draft. I was in the auction last year but wasn’t picked, which was tough as I thought my chances were pretty good. This year, if I get picked, it’ll be something of a bonus. Since I started playing seriously, the IPL has been the one I’ve targeted. It’d be a dream come true.”- stated Ali Khan.
Ali Khan was first noticed by the West Indian Veteran Dwayne Bravo who was impressed with his performance in the 2018 Global T20 league Canada. Bravo then helped the pacer into the CPL and he did not disappoint as he ended up picking up 16 wickets in the 12 matches he played for Guyana Amazon Warriors.
The 29- year old made the limelight when he dismissed the Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara with his very first delivery on his CPL debut. Post which his name was registered for the IPL auctions in 2019 and he expressed his desire to play one of the best T20 leagues in the World. But unfortunately he could not get a deal last season.
Ali Khan has played 36 T20 matches at the domestic level picking up 38 wickets at an economy of 8.63. He has also represented the American National team on one occasion claiming a wicket for his side.
Cover Credits: CricketCountry
