Rana Naved-ul-Hasan, born on February 28, 1978, in Sheikhupura, Punjab, Pakistan, is a former professional cricketer who represented Pakistan in international cricket as an all-rounder. With his impressive bowling skills, dynamic batting abilities, and exemplary fielding, Rana played a crucial role in the Pakistani cricket team during his career.
Rana made his debut for the national team in Sharjah in 2003, just after the disappointing World Cup campaign. At that time, he faced tough competition from the likes of Abdul Razzaq, Shoaib Malik, and Azhar Mahmood for the all-rounder’s spot. Despite some remarkable performances in the early stages of his career, Rana was dropped from the team due to alleged disciplinary issues. However, with the inconsistency of other bowlers and uncertainties surrounding Shoaib Akhtar’s position, Rana managed to make his way back into the team and cemented his place as an essential member of the ODI side.
Known for his ability to bowl a reverse-swinging yorker with ease and his effective change of pace, Rana’s talent with the ball was highly regarded. His control over line and length, along with his unwavering determination on the field, made him a standout performer. Although his Test appearances were limited and largely unsuccessful, he impressed during England’s tour of Pakistan in 2005-06. Unfortunately, a groin injury sustained during his county stint at Sussex affected his form in 2006.
Rana’s position in the team became precarious with the return of Umar Gul and Pakistan’s struggle to find a consistent fast bowler. However, he managed to secure his spot in the squad for the World Cup despite a disappointing performance in the South African tour. Following a lackluster World Cup, he was dropped from the team, but his county team Sussex continued to have faith in his abilities.
As a lower-order batsman, Rana had limited opportunities to showcase his hard-hitting skills, although he claimed to be a natural wicketkeeper-batsman and also played hockey before committing to a career in cricket. Despite his contributions, Rana faced setbacks in his career. He was dropped from the team after a forgettable match against West Indies in the 2007 World Cup and was subsequently overlooked for tours to Abu Dhabi and Scotland. Additionally, he was not awarded a central contract by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in July 2007.
Despite these challenges, Rana joined the unsanctioned Indian Cricket League (ICL), risking his future with Pakistan and the county circuit. However, when the PCB pardoned players with ICL ties, Rana was recalled to the ODI side. He was later included in the squad for Pakistan’s tour of Australia in 2009, which proved to be a disastrous and winless series for the team. During the ensuing fallout and PCB inquiry, Rana faced bans and fines along with several other players. While some of his teammates had their bans overturned and returned to the Test side, Rana remained in the wilderness and struggled to earn a place in a bowling attack that featured Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Asif, and Umar Gul.
After his cricketing career, Rana has been involved in various endeavors, including coaching and commentary. His contributions to Pakistani cricket, particularly in the ODI format, will always be remembered. Although he faced numerous challenges and setbacks, his dedication to the sport and never-give-up attitude defined his cricketing journey. Rana Naved-ul-Hasan remains an inspiration to aspiring cricketers in Pakistan and around the world.
Overall, Rana’s career was a mix of highs and lows, characterized by his exceptional bowling skills, natural talent as a batsman, and unwavering commitment to the game. Despite facing more than his fair share of obstacles, he remains an important figure in Pakistani cricket history.
