WEB DESK: Pakistan’s star pacer has refused a big offer from the ongoing Big Bash League 2025/26 (BBL) for his commitment to the national team.
Ali Raza, who won the hearts of cricket fans with his lethal bowling, was contacted by a renowned BBL franchise. However, Ali declined the offer to stay in the Under-19 circle, sources revealed.
Wasim Akram on Ali Raza
Earlier, the sultan of swing Wasim Akram also commented on the young gun’s talent. He said that I believe 17-year-old fast bowler Ali Raza has all the talent to shine for Pakistan at the international stage.
Speaking to Wisden Cricket, Akram praised contemporary top Pacers-Mitchell Starc, Jasprit Bumrah andShaheen Shah Afridi-and then pointed to Raza’s upside: “I very rarely watch Pakistan’s first-class cricket, but I think this young fast bowler, Ali Raza, has a bright future ahead. If he’s guided properly and understands what it takes to become a top red ball bowler, the white ball success will follow automatically.”
Meet Ali Raza in one minute
Raza has not yet played for Pakistan’s senior team, but he has already turned heads:
- PSL 10 (Peshawar Zalmi): 12 wickets in 9 matches, average 25.25, economy 9.18.
- Pakistan U19: 26 wickets in 11 ODIs, economy 4.91.
- First class: 32 wickets in 6 matches, best 7/48, two five-fors and one 10-for.
- List A: 17 wickets in 12 games, economy 6.16.
These are strong early numbers for a teenager, backed by pace and a repeatable action.
U-10 team heroic welcome
Earlier, Pakistan Under-19 cricket team arrived back in Pakistan after defeating India by 191 runs.
Even the extreme cold weather in December could not hold back hundreds of excited fans. They came to the airport to congratulate the new Asian champions.
Fans warmly welcomed the champions by cheering up the young heroes with the traditional drumbeats. The crowd was dancing and throwing rose petals at them.
When they left the terminal, the emotional scenes followed as the elderly fans hugged the players, even as the children cheered on the shoulders of their parents.
In addition, patriotic music was played, and fans were dancing and admiring the victory of the youngsters.
Pakistan won the U-19 Asia Cup by defeating India in a one-sided final at the ICC Academy.
Pakistan batted first and set the target of 348 runs. In response, the batting line of India collapsed and was washed out at 156 runs due to the immense pressure built up by the Pakistani batting and bowling line.
Field Marshal Asim Munir met U-19 team
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, met the Pakistan U-19 cricket team at General Headquarters (GHQ), Rawalpindi on Monday.
The Field Marshal warmly congratulated the players, team management, and officials on their outstanding performance in the Asia Cup Men’s U-19.
Pakistan beat India on Sunday and became the champions of the Asia Cup.
He lauded the team’s discipline, teamwork, and fighting spirit, terming their success a matter of great pride for the nation.
The Field Marshal appreciated the dedication and hard work of the young cricketers, emphasising that their achievement reflects the immense talent and potential of Pakistan’s youth.
He further encouraged the players to continue striving for excellence, maintain high standards of professionalism, and serve as ambassadors of the country on and off the field.
Read more: Wasim Akram Says Teen Quick Ali Raza Could Be Pakistan’s Next Big Thing
