Ali Raza Reveals Sarfaraz Ahmed’s Role in U19 Asia Cup Win

Pakistan’s Under-19 squad returned home with more than a trophy. They carried a sense of direction, earned through weeks of pressure, recovery, and constant learning. For fast bowler Ali Raza, that journey remains vivid, especially the role played by former national captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, whose presence quietly guided a young dressing room.

Speaking in an Ali Raza interview, the right-arm pacer described a tournament built on a daily grind rather than big promises. Yet the environment stayed balanced, largely due to Sarfaraz’s calm involvement and the management’s patience with emerging players.

Trust During Tough Moments

Raza’s own tournament nearly slipped away early due to an injury-interrupted rhythm and tested resolve, particularly when energy dipped during recovery days. He admitted motivation was not always easy to summon, and what mattered was the backing he received.

The coaching staff stood firm. Sarfaraz reinforced that trust with constant reminders about preparation and patience. Raza felt that belief every time he stepped onto the field, even when his body lagged behind his intent. That reassurance became fuel, pushing him through spells that demanded control rather than speed.

Sarfaraz’s past achievements were never delivered as lectures. They surfaced naturally in conversations, usually at the right moment. His Champions Trophy success served as a reference point, showing what unity and clarity can produce when the stakes rise.

Building a Family Atmosphere

Away from home, young squads often struggle with routine and isolation. Raza said that the issue never took hold, and the team stayed close, shared meals, and leaned on each other. Sarfaraz played a central role in shaping that culture, making sure no player felt detached or overwhelmed.

That sense of togetherness translated onto the field, and mistakes were addressed without panic. The Pakistan U19 Asia Cup campaign turned into a learning loop where every match sharpened the next.

Raza also spoke about playing against India, a match full of pressure and emotion, and he said the team stayed calm and focused. According to him, both teams played hard cricket, and they showed good sportsmanship, which kept the match intense but under control.

Inspiration From The Greats

Like many fast bowlers in Pakistan, Raza grew up learning from legends. He watched and studied great bowlers from the past like Wasim Akram. They helped him understand swing, control, and discipline, and in the final, he remembered Mohammad Amir’s spell in the Champions Trophy. Those memories helped him stay focused in the crucial overs.

When Wasim Akram and Ian Bishop acknowledged his performance publicly, it reinforced Raza’s belief that he belonged at this level.

Statistically, his impact stood tall, as he took nine wickets in five matches. In the final against India, he bowled a match-winning spell and took four wickets, and Pakistan defended a big total. He was also the most important factor in Pakistan winning the final.

Looking ahead, Raza remains clear-eyed. His ambition stretches beyond youth cricket. He wants to represent Pakistan U19 as a stepping stone toward senior caps across formats.