Hassan Raza 
Sahibzada Farhan has redefined power-hitting in T20 cricket. Since the start of 2025, no batter worldwide has matched his run tally or six-hitting prowess. With a remarkable 1219 T20I runs at an average of 35.85 and a blistering strike rate of 140.92, Farhan’s return to Pakistan’s national side has been nothing short of sensational. His record-shattering 383 runs at the 2026 T20 World Cup, including two centuries in Sri Lanka, solidified his status as one of the format’s most dangerous openers.
Rediscovering the Joy of Cricket
Reflecting on his recent form, Farhan credits a shift in mindset. “Earlier, I used to stress over my performances, which never helped. Now, I focus on enjoying the game, just as the senior players advised me. That change has translated directly into results on the field.”
Thriving with Multan Sultans and Steven Smith
Farhan’s partnership with Steven Smith for Multan Sultans has flourished, thanks to a supportive team environment. “Gohar Shah, our owner and a former player himself, truly understands what players need. That’s invaluable for young cricketers,” Farhan explains. “Opening with someone of Smith’s calibre is special. He’s approachable and always willing to share his experience. We constantly exchange insights-especially about opposition bowlers, with me offering details on our domestic talent and him sharing his international expertise.”
Setting and Achieving Ambitious Goals
Farhan’s relentless drive is fueled by clear objectives. “After going unsold in the PSL 2025 draft, I told myself I needed to stand out. I set a target of scoring two centuries in the National T20 Cup-and ended up with three, leading my team to the final. That momentum carried through the PSL, where I finished as the top scorer and hit a century as well.”
His performances have not been limited to the shortest format. “I led the run charts in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy and was among the top five in the one-day competition. Building on this foundation gave me the confidence to become a match-winner for Pakistan.”
The Turning Point: Prioritizing Strike Rate
Despite leading run tallies, Farhan faced honest critiques from teammates like Iftikhar Ahmed, who challenged him to raise his strike rate as an opener. “Initially, I didn’t agree. I thought scoring the most runs should be enough. But with encouragement from coaches and peers, I realized I needed to push my strike rate above 140.”
That realization sparked a transformation. “I began focusing on hitting more sixes and consistently aimed to be the tournament’s leading six-hitter. My practice routines became more intense-sometimes hitting 100 to 120 sixes a day with different types of balls to build range and power.”
The Science and Training Behind Six-Hitting
Power-hitting, Farhan insists, is built in the gym as much as on the field. “Strength training has been part of my routine since my early days. It’s what allows you to clear boundaries even with mishits. Practicing range-hitting in the open ground, not just in nets, helps me measure my shots against both pace and spin.”
Sharpening Focus: No Hesitation at the Crease
Asked about his approach at the crease, Farhan is unequivocal: “When the ball is in my zone, I commit fully. Doubt kills momentum-if I’m in two minds, I can’t generate the power needed for clean hitting. That clarity is what lets me capitalize on scoring opportunities, especially when facing consecutive balls in my range.”
Signature Moments and Preparation
His favorite sixes? “Definitely those against India in the Asia Cup. That’s when people truly noticed my six-hitting capability. Hitting three sixes off Jasprit Bumrah in T20Is is a moment I’ll always cherish.”
Preparation is meticulous. “Our analyst, Talha Ejaz, provides detailed video analysis of opposition bowlers. I study their variations and discuss matchups with him-understanding these small details gives me the edge during games.”
Looking Ahead: Raising the Bar for T20 Batting
With his focus now fully on T20 cricket, Farhan promises even more fireworks in the future. “First-class and one-day cricket required restraint, but T20 allows me to express my natural game. As an opener, I want to set the tone, hit more sixes, and keep improving my strike rate. There’s a lot more to come.”
Sahibzada Farhan’s journey is a testament to the power of self-belief, relentless practice, and embracing the evolving demands of modern T20 cricket. With his eyes set on new milestones, his story is far from finished-and fans can expect many more towering sixes in seasons to come.
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