Daily Times

LAHORE: Pakistan’s young batsman Haider Ali, in a teleconference on Thursday, said that he wanted to play in all formats for Pakistan. “I want to be with the team for a long period of time,” he told reporters. He also revealed how the Champions Trophy final of 2017 inspired him to earn a place in the national side of his country. The 19-year-old stated that playing his natural game has helped him perform at all levels of the sport. “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 Haider. “When I came to the PSL after the U19 stage, I got many tips from big players. The seniors said that cricket is the same that you have been playing. I played my natural game and kept performing. I will be ready to play in any position but would try for an earlier position,” he added.

Haider was excited at the prospect of playing at the highest level with players such as Azhar Ali and Babar Azam. “We will get the opportunity to play with players such as Azhar Ali and Babar Azam. 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. The young batsman stated that he wished to represent Pakistan in all formats of the game. “We are prepared for the tour of England. My wish of being named in the Pakistan side has been fulfilled,” he concluded. Pakistan are scheduled to take on England in three Tests and three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), which will be played in August-September.