James Anderson inspires Oman veteran Bilal Khan

Bilal Khan is methodical as Oman’s bowling attack commander. Nothing is left to chance, from 5.30am alarm calls and morning gym sessions to reviewing videos and planning opposing batters.

He wanted to ignore his age before Oman’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign. In their four Group B matches, Khan, 37, will grab the new ball or charge in at the death despite being Oman’s elder statesman.

Since leaving Pakistan for the Gulf of Oman in 2010, he has worked towards the US-West Indies tournament.

This is Khan’s third ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, after 2016 and 2021, but his first time bowling outside Bangladesh. With Australia and England nearby, he could not have asked for a better group.

Bilal Khan, in his late 30s, is ready for the toughest challenge of his career and draws inspiration from a veteran.

“My body feels fine. I love representing Oman and am better prepared now. I feel confident on the pitch knowing I’ve done my part. Playing well is my plan. I value my skills and hard work “said.

“I’ve emulated England’s current top player, James Anderson.

Age is irrelevant; what you do on the pitch is what matters, and ability doesn’t leave you; it’s just about making sure your body can perform. I follow Stuart Broad and James Anderson constantly. Fast-bowling legends. I mostly exercise like Jimmy. He said, “Age is just a number to ignore.”

Yes, opposing batters will notice Khan. He wants to slam David Warner when Oman play the 50-over world champions in Barbados on June 5.

Peshawar-born man who leapt into the unknown 14 years ago will pinch himself. After a brief Pakistani first-class career, Khan relocated to Muscat to begin the ICC’s four-year certification procedure.

He made his debut in 2015 but didn’t become a regular until 2017, when his pace and inside swing caught attention.

“This is my biggest stage; the conditions should be right. My plan is for hot temperatures and real wickets like Oman. Cricket is hard to predict, therefore T20 cricket upsets can happen regardless of the opponent. Unexpected surprises and upsets are our goal. The tournament excites us. We expect a tough test, but we prepare.

Also read: SWOT analysis of England for T20 World Cup 2024

We’re thrilled for our huge contests against Australia and England. We know Scotland and Namibia matches are crucial. Playing against a Test nation is a dream for myself and the boys; it will test our skills, but we are not afraid. Our free swing will be fun. I can’t express our gratitude.”

In the following three weeks, Khan must open and close bowling. Leader of the pack is his favourite role.

“I’m really passionate about helping the younger players and being a leader for this team, I take on” a lot of responsibility.

If somebody on our team is under pressure, I advise them on where to bowl and how to handle it as the bowling unit leader. My current focus is convincing the guys to slow down the ball since bowling too quickly will get you struck too far. Bowling slowly and variedly is a skill. 150kmph is too quick; we should bowl 130-135. The advice was important to me, therefore I’m doing it.

Bilal Khan is worth listening to at 37 and at his best.