Dale Steyn, the former South African fast bowler, commended Hassan Ali from Pakistan for his exceptional performance during the recent cricket match against the Netherlands in the 2023 World Cup held in Hyderabad. Ali's remarkable efforts played a crucial role in Pakistan's victory.
In a recent interview with ESPNcricinfo, Steyn emphasized how Hassan Ali, who had not been given the new ball in a while, rose to the occasion and effectively showcased his cricketing skills. While the absence of the usual fast bowling unit at the beginning of the innings posed a challenge, Hassan's performance effectively mitigated this disruption.
"Hassan Ali hadn't been given the new ball for a while now. It's disruptive when you lose your standard fast bowling pair that usually opens the bowling. However, he came in and performed admirably. He didn't necessarily focus on reaching speeds of 140-145 KMPH; instead, he was highly effective in terms of his line and length," Steyn remarked.
Furthermore, the 40-year-old praised Ali's positive attitude and the genuine joy he displayed on the field. His evident enjoyment of the game, as reflected in his smiling demeanor, was a significant factor that Steyn believed contributed to his success.
"What also stood out to me was his infectious smile. It seemed like he was genuinely enjoying himself. When you're having fun, things tend to flow more smoothly," Steyn concluded.