Nahid focuses on performance, not selection talk

North Zone pacer Nahid Rana has shared his willingness to take on greater responsibility in the middle overs of the 50-over game, saying his primary focus remains on performance rather than selection debates.

Speaking after his Player of the Match display, Nahid was asked whether he sees himself filling the middle-overs wicket-taking role in One Day Internationals — a slot briefly handled effectively by Ebadot Hossain Chowdhury.

The young fast bowler, however, steered clear of selection talk.

“It’s not my job to think about where I’ll get a call-up or not,” Nahid said. “My job is to perform. Whenever and wherever I get the opportunity, I’ll try to give my best and help the team win.”

On Thursday against South Zone, Nahid demonstrated that middle-overs aggression remains a key weapon in his armoury. Returning for his second spell, he banged in a series of sharp bouncers — part of a plan discussed with his captain.

“There’s always a plan — mine and the captain’s. When the team needs something specific, I try to execute that,” he explained. “Even if it’s just one good over or one wicket, contributing to the team is what gives me the most satisfaction.”

Nahid also revealed that Pakistan fast bowling great Waqar Younis advised him to enjoy the game and maintain fitness to sustain his pace.