Pakistan U19 fast bowler Ali Raza has opened up about the team’s remarkable journey to lift the U19 Asia Cup, highlighting former national captain Sarfaraz Ahmed’s key role in guiding and motivating the young team.
In an exclusive interview with Jio NewsRaza reflected on the hard work and dedication that led to the team’s success.
“The Pakistan U19 team has worked incredibly hard and our efforts have finally paid off,” he said. He added that Sarfaraz Ahmed’s experience and leadership was instrumental in shaping the team’s mindset.
Recalling the personal challenges he faced during the tournament, Raza said, “During my injury, there were times when I didn’t want to practice. However, the management believed in me, which motivated me to work hard.”
He also spoke about the inspiration drawn from Sarfaraz’s own achievements, including the 2017 Champions Trophy win.
“He never made us feel homeless. Instead, he created a family-like environment for the team, which really boosted our morale,” Raza explained.
On the team’s approach to the tournament, the young pacer said, “Every day, the U19 team is focused on learning and improving. The management encouraged us to give 100% on the field and as a result lifted the U19 Asia Cup trophy.”
Raza reflected on the historic and intense rivalry between India and Pakistan, stressing the importance of fair play and professionalism in such high-profile encounters.
“In cricket, there is no such thing as a small or big player – it’s important to show sportsmanship. India showed great sportsmanship and we focused on playing good cricket against them,” he said.
The bowler considered cricket legends as sources of inspiration and revealed how the legendary bowlers inspired his journey and boosted his confidence on the field.
“I look up to bowlers like Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Mohammad Asif, Rana Naved and Mohammad Sammy. I am reminded of Mohammad Amir’s spell in the Asia Cup final, in the Champions Trophy. Former greats, Wasim Akram, Ian Bishop, etc. have tweeted their praises for my performance,” Raza said.
Looking ahead, Ali Raza is ambitious about his future.
“If former senior players appreciate my performance, I will be motivated to give my best. I aim to play all three formats for Pakistan and make my own mark in cricket,” he concluded.
It is pertinent to mention that the young right-arm fast bowler was an exceptional contributor to Pakistan’s first U19 Asia Cup title in its 35-year history, with nine wickets in five matches at an economy of 4.31.
In the high-octane final against arch-rivals India, the 17-year-old showed his mettle again, delivering an exceptional spell of 4/42 in 6.2 overs.
Batting first, Pakistan amassed 347-8 in 50 overs, led by Samir Minhas who scored 177 off 113 balls with 17 fours and 9 sixes.
Ahmed Hussain also scored 56 off 72 balls with 3 fours and a six.
Chasing 348 runs, India were bowled out for 156 runs in 26.2 overs to give Pakistan a huge win by 191 runs.
Young pacer Ali Raza led the bowling with four wickets, while Ahmed Hussain and Husayfa Ahsan claimed two wickets each to ensure the boys’ historic victory in green.