Wood Lauds Emerging Pakistani Pacer Ali Raza

England’s fast bowler, Luke Wood, has commented on the promising Pakistani fast bowlers Ahmed Daniyal and Ali Raza, both of whom were part of the Peshawar Zalmi team during the most recent Pakistan Super League (PSL) season.

In a recent interview, Wood commended Ali Raza for his remarkable displays and his calm demeanor when faced with pressure situations.

Wood stated, “The abundance of fast bowling talent is apparent to everyone. Ali Raza, in particular, had an excellent tournament. His ability to bowl in crucial moments, especially during the powerplay overs alongside myself and Alzarri Joseph, was particularly impressive.”

He further added, “He consistently took wickets, which speaks highly of Babar’s trust in him to deliver in high-pressure situations.”

Wood also admired the 17-year-old’s maturity beyond his age, noting, “He is remarkably mature for someone so young. At just 17, he has a lot of potential to develop.”

Reflecting on Ahmed Daniyal’s progress and recent selection for the national team, Wood acknowledged the pacer’s resilience and versatility. He said, “Daniyal was probably a little disappointed towards the end as he wasn’t playing regularly, but he proved his readiness whenever he got the chance. He bowled excellently and demonstrated his batting skills.”

Wood concluded, “I am thrilled that he has now received a Pakistan call-up. It’s always encouraging to see players from the Zalmi squad being recognized for their strong performances.”

Notably, Ali Raza made a significant impression during PSL 10 with his exceptional bowling, claiming 12 wickets in nine matches with an economy rate of 9.18.

On July 8, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, scheduled to begin on July 20 at the Shere-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka.

Right-arm medium pacer Ahmed Daniyal is poised to make his international debut for the Men in Green in the aforementioned series.

All-rounder Salman Ali Agha will captain the T20I side, while Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf are sidelined due to injuries.

Salman Mirza, a pacer who stood out for Lahore Qalandars in PSL 10, has also earned a spot in the national squad.

The T20I series will commence on July 20, with the subsequent matches on July 22 and 24.

The two teams last played in May, with Pakistan securing a 3-0 series victory at home.

Pakistan squad for Bangladesh T20I series:

Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Ahmed Daniyal, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Hassan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza and Sufyan Moqim

Series schedule in Bangladesh: