Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam presented young batsman Muhammad Hurraira with his first Test cap before the start of play on the first day of the first Test match against the West Indies. Babar Azam encouraged Muhammad Hurraira to allow the moment and supported the debutant to express himself.
Huraira replaced Saim Ayub in Pakistan XI for the 1st Test against West Indies in Multan. The 22-year-old batsman is known for his powerful domestic performances in cricket. Pakistan captain Shan Masood won the toss and elected to bat first at the Multan Cricket Stadium in Multan on Friday, January 17.
It is my honor to present the trial cap – Babar Azam
Babar Azam said it was an honor to present the Test cap to Muhammad Hurraira. Azam encouraged him to seize the opportunity, just as he had done throughout his cricketing career.
“First of all, many congratulations. It is an honor for me to give away the test cap. This test cap is very important for Pakistan and for you, and my wish is that as you have played your cricket career, whether domestically or internationally, when whatever opportunity you got, you took it and tried to make Pakistan proud. Today is the time to seize this opportunity and make the best possible debut,” Babar said.
A proud moment for the young man: @realhurraira receives his Test debut cap from @babarazam258 🧢✨#PAKvWI | #RedBallRumble pic.twitter.com/ftlq08pTMV
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) January 17, 2025
Huraira first gained recognition during the 2020 ICC Under-19 World Cup
Huraira first rose to prominence during the 2020 U-19 World Cup, where he played a key role for Pakistan. He produced an impressive knock in the quarter-final against Afghanistan, scoring a match-winning 64 off 76 balls to secure a six-wicket victory and earn him the Man of the Match award.
In 2023, he was selected in the Pakistan squad for the series against Sri Lanka, but did not get a chance to play. He scored a double century for Pakistan A in a first-class match in July 2024. Huraira showed his talent and solid technique, scoring more than 3,400 runs at a first-class average of 56.24.
We all support Muhammad Hurrair – Shan Masood
Shan Masood, after being awarded the toss, emphasized the importance of becoming a tough team to beat at home. Masood confirmed the debut of Muhammad Hurraira, stating that the team fully supports the young player. He also emphasized the desire to replicate their performances from the English series.
“First we will bat with the conditions in mind. We have to look at our home conditions and think of ways we can become a side that is difficult to beat at home. We would like to have a strong support in certain conditions. It is always exciting to take the first ball for Pakistan. We have the debut performance of young Hurrair, we all want to repeat it, said Masood.
Also read: BCCI sacks Abhishek Nayar, Ryan ten Doeschate? Board furious at “KKR’s influence” in Indian team
