Wood Lauds Emerging Pakistani Pacer Ali Raza

England’s fast bowler, Luke Wood, has voiced his opinions on the promising young Pakistani fast bowlers Ahmed Daniyal and Ali Raza, both of whom were part of the Peshawar Zalmi team during the recent Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10.

In a recent discussion with a sports outlet, Wood specifically commended the emerging Pakistani bowler Ali Raza, acknowledging his remarkable displays and poise when facing critical moments.

“The wealth of fast bowling talent is evident for everyone to see. In Ali Raza’s case, he experienced a superb tournament. What struck me most was the frequency with which he bowled during crucial stages, notably in the powerplay overs, frequently following my and Alzarri Joseph’s spells,” stated Wood.

“He routinely secured wickets, and I believe it demonstrates Babar’s confidence in him that he entrusted him with the ball during such intense periods,” he added.

He further applauded the 17-year-old for demonstrating a maturity that belies his age.

“I honestly believe he possesses considerable maturity for his age. Being only 17 is truly impressive, and there is significant potential for development,” he remarked.

When reflecting on Ahmed Daniyal’s path and recent selection for the national team, the 29-year-old expressed his respect for the pacer’s tenacity and diverse skillset.

“Daniyal was likely somewhat disappointed towards the conclusion as he didn’t have consistent playing time. However, he demonstrated his readiness each time he was called upon. He not only bowled exceptionally but also showcased his batting prowess,” he mentioned.

“I am delighted that he has now earned a call-up to the Pakistan squad. Similar to others before him, it’s wonderful to witness players from the Zalmi setup gaining recognition for their efforts,” he concluded.

Notably, the young, emerging pacer Ali impressed everyone with his outstanding bowling performance in PSL 10, claiming 12 wickets across nine matches with an economy rate of 9.18.

On July 8, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed a 15-member team for the forthcoming 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 remain the T20I team’s captain, while vice-captain Shadab Khan and pacer Haris Rauf are sidelined due to injuries.

Pacer Salman Mirza, who shone during Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 with Lahore Qalandars, has secured a spot in the national squad.

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

The two sides last clashed in May of this year, with Pakistan securing a 3-0 series victory on home soil.

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