Former Pakistan Test cricketer and captain Azhar Ali has achieved a significant milestone in his coaching career after becoming an officially qualified ICC Level 3 coach. Azhar Ali announced the achievement in a post on social media platform X, saying that cricket has given him countless lessons, memories and opportunities throughout his career, and that he now wants to give back to the game by sharing his experience.
The former Test cricketer said he would strive to play his part in nurturing young talent and developing the next generation of players, helping them become not only better cricketers and athletes but also confident individuals. “Learning never stops, and the journey continues,” Azhar said in his message.
It is worth mentioning here that Azhar Ali is one of Pakistan’s successful Test batsmen. He represented Pakistan in 97 Tests and 53 ODIs between 2010 and 2022 and also captained the national team. Azhar Ali began his cricketing journey as a leg-spinner but quickly developed his batting skills, eventually earning selection for Pakistan A and later the national team.
Playing in English conditions and facing the Australian bowling attack is a challenging experience for any batsman. To do so in your very first Test match, while batting at number three, makes the challenge even greater. Despite the immense pressure, Azhar Ali impressed with his compact technique and ability to occupy the crease for long periods during his debut Test. He then followed it up with a crucial half-century in the second Test against Australia, which played an important role in Pakistan’s victory.