Wahab Riaz explains the inspiration behind his new facial hair

Pakistan pacer Wahab Riaz debuted his new facial hairdo, which soon went viral on social media across the country and the Peshawar Zalmi player seems to be enjoying the reaction of his fans.

In an interview, when Wahab was asked the secret behind his new style, he said that this is his way of showing his new motivation to everyone. "I wish I can properly perform once again,in this PSL series, what I am known for — my character [role] as a fast bowler," he said.

"I hope it keeps reminding me of who I am, what I have to do in this tournament and how I have to perform," he added.

When asked if the style inspiration comes from Australian speedster Mitchell Johnson, who is also a left-arm fast bowler like Wahab, he responded in affirmative, noting how Johnson was obviously one of the great fast bowler in the world. "See, it's good to be inspired by anyone for anything that benefits you and if I'm inspired by Mitchell, then I’d love to say thank you to him."

He further said about his new style that he had planned this beforehand and obviously he did this makeover right before he was due to arrive for the match … changed the style of his facial hair.

Wahab went on to say, "I was quite scared and nervous when I came to the stadium because I knew people would take and share pictures [of my new style]."

"However, I'm thankful to Allah that the match started good and that I got the chance to tell people that it's an inspiration," Wahab added.

Speaking about his team, he said, "Peshawar Zalmi is my team, I've been playing for them for two years and I've been enjoying it. I hope that I fulfill the responsibility — that I have on my shoulders — properly."