Usman, Haider eager to excel against South Africa

LAHORE-Promising leg-spinner Usman Qadir and young batting sensation Haider Ali have vowed to deliver, if given chance in the coming South Africa T20I series. 

Talking to the reporters during a virtual press conference here on Tuesday, Usman, along with Haider Ali, said that he was focused on producing good results for the national side. “Our three-day practice has been really good. The way Saqlain Mushtaq and Muhammad Yousuf have worked with us, it has been really good. Dew might play a big role and they have taught us some valuable things about it. In international matches, dew usually is minimised but we are still prepared to face it. If given chance, I will try to deliver for my team.” 

Replying to a query, the leg spinner said that he was working on his batting in the nets, adding that he would love to establish his credentials as an all-rounder in the team while David Miller’s wicket would be his prized scalp during the T20I series. To another query, he said that there is no competition between him and Zahid as the only goal is to perform well for the country. “Zahid is no doubt a good bowler and has also been performing in domestic cricket but there is no pressure on either of us. Whoever gets a chance will try to perform.”

Young batsman Haider Ali said that he has learnt a lot during the practice sessions under the able guidance of NCA batting coach Muhammad Yousuf, who has given valuable tips to the batsmen, helping them to do well without being under pressure against top cricketing nations. 

“I will try to give my best against Proteas and also try to come up to the expectations of the fans and emulate the feats of national team skipper Babar Azam. We all have to play our individual role to help the national team record a 3-0 T20I series win as well against the visiting team,” he added. 

Replying to a query, he said that he always tries to give his best on the field but performance is in the hands of Almighty. “As a batsman, I will feel less pressure on home soil as compared to the away tours while the knowledge of the home grounds and playing conditions will give me more confidence to excel against South Africa. I am mentally prepared to open with captain Babar Azam during the T20I series as I have played as an opener in the ICC Under-19 World Cup and there is no question of any pressure,” he asserted.