‘He Reminds Me Of A Young Yusuf Pathan’: Ex-Australia Player Lauds India’s ’emerging’ Star

Tom Moody, the former head coach of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), has compared young middle-order batsman Abdul Samad to the big-hitting Yusuf Pathan due to his power game and ability to hit towering sixes. Moody worked closely with Samad during his tenure as the director and head coach of SRH in 2021 and 2022.

Samad played a crucial role in SRH’s thrilling last-ball win against Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur by hitting a six off Sandeep Sharma on the final delivery of the match. Although he was caught at long-off with five runs needed off the final ball, Samad was given a reprieve due to Sharma overstepping and being called for a no-ball. Samad’s quickfire 17-run knock off just seven deliveries included two maximums and showcased his rare ability to hit the ball out of the ground.

“What Abdul Samad has got as a young, emerging player is a rare ability to hit the ball out of the ground. He reminds me of a young Yusuf Pathan. He’s got that strength, power, and it’s a very hard role to play,” Moody told ESPNCricinfo.