Teen impresses Pakistan legends at Qalandars trails

It looks like Lahore Qalandars have already started the search of their new star as the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise landed in Muzaffarabad for trails on thursday.

It was a lucky day for young Hammad Baig, as he got the attention of batting great Inzamam-ul-Haq and legendary pacer Aaqib Javed. Hammad, a student of grade seven, was among the aspiring Qalandars who appeared at the open trials in Muzaffarabad.

“It was very motivating for me to bowl in front of Inzamam. He encouraged me and suggested me to bowl more with my right arm,” said Hammad.

He is the second ambidextrous bowler to be spotted by Lahore Qalandars, after Yasir Jan was picked by the franchise during the first edition of their widely acclaimed players development programme.

The 13-year-old is the youngest among his four siblings. At the moment, he is playing cricket at club level and will continue to learn from every opportunity. His age might be a hurdle for Hammad to be part of a team from Kashmir, but Lahore Qalandars are determined to train him.

“He can become a very good cricketer in the next few years. He is too young at the moment but we will take him under our umbrella to train him and transform him into a pro,” said Aaqib, Director of Cricket at Lahore Qalandars.