Ali Asfand wants to be like Babar Zulfiqar

• Asfand want to be liek Babar Zulfiqar.
• He aims to be a prominent player in his sport.
• He is currently taking part in the PCB Pathway Program.

Ali Asfand, who is 17 years old, has set the objective of becoming a prominent player in his sport, recognising that aspirations are necessary for reaching the top of one’s career.

Despite criticism from his family, the Faisalabad-born left-arm spinner is one of 107 cricketers participating in the Pathways Program.

Read more: Mohammad Hasnain to resume his bowling career: PCB

“My family often got furious at me as I used to bunk classes to feature in cricket matches. They tried to force me to leave the game and encouraged me to secure a good future by pursuing my education. But cricket remains my passion and I want people to remember me as one of the stars of the game.

“Though I am pleased that I navigated my way through all the tough experiences, it would have been better if I had my family’s support from day one,” Ali told PCB digital.

Ali Asfand, while playing for Central Punjab Blues U19, was the National U19 Cup’s best wicket-taker with 10 dismissals. Then, in eight red-ball matches during the National U19 Championship, he took 25 wickets.

The 17-year-old is ecstatic about the new PCB initiative, which provides him with a monthly stipend of PKR30,000, free education, and coaching from foreign specialists, and claims it will help him pursue a career in cricket.

Read more: PCB announces women’s squad for tri-series, Commonwealth Games

“The PCB Pathways Programme has convinced my parents to accept my passion, which will not only enhance my cricket skills but will also help me secure quality education and a monthly stipend that will allow me look after my expenses before I turn into a professional cricketer.

“I look forward to taking full advantage of the presence of international coaches in the PCB Pathways Programme, which, in turn, will prepare me better for the Pakistan Junior League, which can be a platform to demonstrate my talent and potential.”

Read more: PCB announces sponsorship for Pathway Cricket Program

Ali admires Zulfiqar Babar, a senior left-handed slow left-arm orthodox bowler who represented Pakistan in 29 international matches.

“I am impressed by Zulfiqar Babar and used to watch his bowling on television. I want to master the art of deceiving a batter with the spin like him.”