Saad Optimistic of Leading Pakistan to Glory in U19 WC

News Desk
Islamabad: Saad Baig, the captain of the Pakistan U19 cricket team, expressed optimism about guiding his squad to success in the U19 World Cup in South Africa.
Leading the Pakistan U19 team in 17 one-day matches, Baig achieved a commendable record with 10 victories.
Hailing from Karachi, Saad Baig initiated his cricket journey at the Customs Cricket Academy in the same city. Notably, he was part of their touring party on a trip to India. His cricketing prowess became evident early on when he showcased impressive performances in the PCB’s Under-13 Regional Tournament 2018-19.
During the tournament, Baig scored 128 runs and secured four dismissals behind the stumps. Throughout his cricketing journey, he received unwavering support from his parents, contributing to his success on the field.
The young talent was the leading run scorer in the National U16 One-Day Tournament 2019–20, accumulating 206 runs in four games.
Saad had a stellar run in 2022, where he was the second-leading run scorer in the National U19 One-Day Cup, pouched eight catches, and stumped one batter. He was rewarded with a call-up to Pakistan U19 for the home series against Bangladesh U19 and was appointed captain of the team.
“My father used to play cricket, and he took me to the academy. My first breakthrough was an U15 tour to India, where I did very well with the bat and gloves. It gave me a lot of confidence to excel at all age group levels. I believe if you are exposed to quality cricket at the club level and good coaches, then you can kick start a great career. My alma mater, St. Paul’s High School, has also played a great role where my coach, Sir Lenny, used to train me even in summer breaks,” he told PCB Digital.
Saad brings stability to the middle-order and has shown the ability to bat for longer periods while also churning runs at a healthy rate. He stitched an unbeaten 125-run partnership with Azan Awais in a successful chase against India U19 in the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2024. Behind the stumps, Saad has a trusted pair of hands, which provides confidence to all bowlers. His decision-making is deemed sound as he commands respect from his teammates.
Saad would be hoping to contribute to Pakistan’s success by being on top of his game in all three facets: batting, leadership, and wicket keeping.
Saad was aware of Pakistan’s 17-year-long U19 World Cup trophy drought and looks excited to bring the trophy back home. “I’m glad the PCB has trusted me with the leadership role of a very talented bunch of players,” he said.
“The journey so far has been very good, and I want to continue making fine memories. My next goal is to win the U19 World Cup for Pakistan, as I know it’s been a long time since we lifted that trophy in 2006.”