Ijaz Ahmed (left): “I am fully confident about Qasim because he has [the] complete abilities to become a great all-rounder. He is one of the best fielders according to white-ball cricket requirements, his power-hitting and fitness are of top quality”

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

Pakistan Under-19 head coach Ijaz Ahmed has backed 17-year-old all-rounder Qasim Akram to break into the national team in the near future.

Ijaz’s prediction comes after rising star Haider Ali made his international debut in the third T20 International against England, where he smashed a 33-ball 54, which included five boundaries and two sixes, to lead Pakistan to a five-run win.

Like Haider, who is just 19 years old, Ijaz sees bright things in Qasim’s future too.

“I am fully confident about Qasim because he has [the] complete abilities to become a great all-rounder. He is one of the best fielders according to white-ball cricket requirements, his power-hitting and fitness are of top quality,” Ijaz was quoted as saying by Ary Sports.

In addition to Qasim, Ijaz also has high hopes for Abbas Afridi, Amir Khan, Aamir Ali and Haris Khan.

“Apart from him, there is Abbas Afridi, pacer Amir Khan, spinner Aamir Ali, wicketkeeper-batsman Haris Khan. I am confident that these U-19 products will represent the national team soon,” he said.

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