Young guns eager to represent Pakistan on England tour

Pakistan emerging stars top order batsman Haider Ali and pacer Haris Rauf are eager to represent the country on England tour which will start in August.

The duo were named in 29 member squad which is expected to depart for England this month or early July.

Haider Ali has been performing well for Men in Green at the U19 level and also made a name for himself in the now postponed Pakistan Super League (PSL) season five. Meanwhile, Haris Rauf, who made his Twenty20 International (T20I) debut against Bangladesh in January this year, has played in two seasons of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and was one of the best performers for Melbourne Stars, in Big Bash League (BBL) season nine, with 20 wickets to his credit. Taking via teleconference, Haider, a promising young batsman, was optimistic to share dressing room with players like Babar Azam and Azhar Ali. “We will get the opportunity to play with players such as Azhar Ali and Babar Azam,” said the right-hander.

“I wish to play Tests for my country. I have already performed in the final of the domestic season. I have proven myself in Under-19 (U19) cricket as well. If I get a chance, I will not let the selectors down,” he said.

Recalling Pakistan’s Champions trophy triumph, Haider revealed how the game inspired him to earn a place in the national side of his country.

“I watched the entire match of the Champions Trophy. I decided that I was going to play for Pakistan after that. It was an unbelievable moment. Pakistan won a one-sided encounter against India,” said Ali.

Commenting on England tour he said, “We are prepared for the tour of England. My wish of being named in the Pakistan side has been fulfilled. I want to play in all formats for Pakistan. I want to be with the team for a long period of time.”

Pakistan is scheduled to take on England in three Tests and three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), which will be played in August-September.

Meanwhile, Haris Rauf, who already had an opportunity of representing Pakistan at international level, was optimistic to represent the county in longest format of the game.

"I have made up mind that I have to play Tests in England at any cost. Whenever my team will need me, I will try to give my 100 per cent. I am mentally prepared and excited to play Test cricket," said Rauf.

"Conditions in England are favourable for fast-bowlers and I will try to make full use of them. I have belief in my skills and will try not to get overconfident," he added.