Junaid Khan - Pakistan - Bowler

Someone's epic loss - Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif, was someone else's chance - Junaid Khan. Also coincidental was the retirement of Shoaib Akhtar after the 2011 World Cup. The selectors focussed on blooding in new speedsters. Junaid, hailing from North-West Frontier Province, was a part of the under-19 World Cup team in 2008. But did not get a chance to break into the playing eleven.

Drafted into the ODI side in 2011 in both ODIs and Tests, Khan had his big moment under the sun when he became Kohli's nemesis in the historical ODI series between India and Pakistan in late 2012. In all the three ODIs, Junaid had Kohli's number. He announced his arrival on the big stage with pomp and glory deceiving one of the stalwarts in the shorter format with pace and swing.

The initial jump at the start of the delivery stride followed by a smooth run up to the crease and then an impeccable release point with the flex of the wrist to give the ball the flick that gets it to move. A strong wrist position and the ability to bowl quick forces the batsman to adjust to movement at a fast clip.

However, injuries have already plagued his career and his appearances since 2015 have been on and off. Fitness concerns ruled him out of the 2015 World Cup. And in 2016 when he was ignored for the ODI series in England, there were strong rumours that Junaid, who had qualified to play for England, might as well look at that option. But he came out and cleared the air saying his loyalties still lie with Pakistan cricket.

Having not played a single Test since 2015, Junaid came back into the ODI team for the tour to Australia but his bargains were highly below par. Then the series in the Windies as well did not go as per expectations for the left arm swing bowler. He has been though selected for the 2017 Champions Trophy. A good strong performance from Junaid can certainly bring back memories and usher Pakistan deep into the tourney.

by Kumar Abhisekh Das