Saad Baig targets bigger scores after promising Pakistan debut

20-year-old scores 185 runs in five matches ODI tri-series

Pakistan’s emerging wicketkeeper-batter Saad Baig says he is determined to turn promising starts into bigger scores and establish himself as a dependable performer after an encouraging debut ODI series.

The 20-year-old scored 185 runs in five matches during the recently concluded tri-nation series, including his maiden half-century, and helped Pakistan defeat Sri Lanka by three wickets in Saturday’s final at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.

Baig made 74 in the title-deciding match as Pakistan chased down a target of 326 to lift the trophy. He also took three catches behind the stumps during the tournament.

Speaking on the Pakistan Cricket Board’s digital programme Straight Drive with Salman Butt, Baig reflected on his first international series, adapting to different batting positions and managing pressure situations.

“My plan was simple. I wanted to carry the confidence and belief I had developed in domestic cricket into international cricket,” he said.

“Whatever the situation, whether early wickets had fallen or a partnership was developing, I wanted to back my skills, play my natural game and trust my abilities.”

Baig said he also learned the importance of adjusting his approach according to the match situation.

“Sometimes you have to control your natural instincts and build a partnership according to the situation. I tried to do that while communicating with my batting partner,” he said. “I am thankful to have contributed to the team’s success.”

The left-hander progressed through Pakistan’s age-group system, representing the country at under-13, under-16 and under-19 levels before captaining the side at the 2024 ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup.

Pakistan reached the semi-finals of that tournament, losing to Australia by one wicket.

Baig said making the transition from age-group cricket to the senior national team was particularly rewarding, especially as several members of his under-19 batch have also reached the international level.

“It is a very good feeling to have come through a proper pathway, from age-group cricket to captaining Pakistan in the U19 World Cup and then representing the senior national side,” he said.

“I am grateful to have made a positive start, but this is only the beginning. My focus is to keep learning, identify areas where I can improve and develop my game further so that I can perform consistently for Pakistan.”