Younger Qadir ‘desperate’ for national colours

Usman ready to learn quickly, praises coaches’ help at NCA.

LAHORE:

Former Pakistan leg-spinner Abdul Qadir’s son Usman said that while he is desperate to play cricket at the international stage, ample experience was a must before he made his debut.

The 17-year-old has played just three List ‘A’ matches and was pointed out as a prospect for the national side by his father who is currently supervising the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Fast Track Coaching Programme for spinners.

“It depends how hard you work towards your goal,” Usman told The Express Tribune. “I’m obviously desperate to make my debut and but let’s see how it goes. Playing for the national side is always a privilege and getting there is all about how good you are. So I’m currently focusing on domestic cricket.”

Usman, whose bowling action is modelled on his fathers’, played at the under-15 level and stood out when he represented the under-19 team. His leg-spin fetched him nine wickets against the Zimbabwe under-19 side and was also successful against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in the tri-series, where he grabbed six wickets at just 12.83.

“The coaches have worked on us a lot here. And my father is also present to guide me. I can easily say that I have enhanced my bowling skills.”

Meanwhile, off-spinner Raza Hasan, also part of the camp underway at the National Cricket Academy, is a strong prospect for the national team as well after his late call-up to the national squad in England last year after Danish Kaneria’s shock withdrawal.

“If I’m not part of the national team, that’s okay since I’m learning a lot here,” said the 19-year-old. “Such camps are helping me a lot. I’m gaining a lot and hopefully I’ll be ready for the national side soon.”

Published in The Express Tribune, July 22^nd,  2011.