Kamran Ghulam’s unwavering determination to represent Pakistan in international cricket has finally borne fruit. After 11 years of toil in domestic cricket, the 29-year-old made a remarkable Test debut, becoming the 13th Pakistani to score a century on his first appearance.
Ghulam’s journey to the international stage has been marked by patience and perseverance. Despite being repeatedly overlooked for selection, he never lost sight of his dream. “I’d been waiting for my chance a long time but I never gave up,” he said. “I had been waiting for my chance. That’s all I thought about.”
His debut came under immense pressure, replacing the injured Babar Azam. With Pakistan struggling at 19 for 2, Ghulam walked out to face the daunting England spinners. However, he remained unfazed, drawing on his vast experience in domestic cricket.
Ghulam’s first-class record is impressive, with only 12 players scoring more runs in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy since his debut in 2013. His average of nearly 50 places him among the elite batsmen in Pakistan.
In his Test debut, Ghulam showcased his aggressive style, banking his shots before lunch and setting the platform for a crucial partnership with Saim Ayub. He then built another solid stand with Mohammad Rizwan, reaching his century with a stylish slap over midwicket off Joe Root.
Ghulam’s innings of 118, his 17th first-class hundred, was a testament to his hard work and determination. “I’ve scored a lot of first-class runs,” he said. “I didn’t care about the venue or the team, I just needed to make my debut.”
Despite the pressure of replacing a legend like Babar Azam, Ghulam remained focused on giving his best. “Babar is a very good player and at the back of my mind I was thinking he’s a legend, a very good player,” he said. “But I thought I’d give 110% and play with a positive mindset.”
Ghulam’s debut century has not only fulfilled his long-held dream but also given Pakistan a much-needed boost in the ongoing Test series against England. His performance is a reminder that perseverance and hard work can overcome any obstacle.
