Manchester : Emerging batsman Haider Ali is near to realize his dream of playing for the national team after his impressive performances in domestic cricket and Pakistan Super League (PSL) season five.

“This is a dream come true for me,” Haider told pcb.com.pk. “Every young cricketer wishes to be here. This is my first tour and though I have shared dressing room with established cricketers in the HBL PSL 2020, being in the Pakistan dressing room is altogether a different experience,” he added.

The 19-year-old revealed that he didn’t get the chance to bat in club matches, so he practiced to improve his drive at the nets.

“I did not get to bat much in matches during my club cricket days. I used to spend a lot of time in nets and focused on cover drives as it is my favorite shot. That practice helped me improve this shot,” he maintained.

Haider is now eager to make the most of the opportunity and proof himself at the international level. “This is my first tour of England. The conditions here are different than Pakistan and even a different kind of ball is used here. Arriving here two months early has been beneficial, as it has provided me the necessary time to practice. I am looking forward to make the most of what I have learned from my previous experiences,” he added.

‘He is an upcoming star of Pakistan’ says Younis Khan

Pakistan’s batting coach and the former captain Younis Khan has praised Haider’s work ethic and his will to learn.

“Haider has that will and skill which turn a youngster into a good player. He has that spark and he is always eager to learn,” Younis said.

“I believe he is an upcoming star of Pakistan and he will perform whenever he gets a chance. He is strong and his fitness is improving day-by-day. He has a bright future and the ability to play all formats for Pakistan,” he added.

It must be noted that Pakistan and England will take part in three-match T20I series, starting from Friday, August 28.