Former England cricketer heaps high praise on emerging pacer Ali Raza

Former England pacer and commentator Dominic Cork has praised Pakistan’s emerging pacer Ali Raza after his impressive performance against Multan Sultans in the PSL 10.

After posting an imposing 227-run total, Zalmi’s bowling unit came out with relentless intent and ensured there was no room for a comeback from the Sultans.

The chase began shakily for Multan Sultans, who lost their skipper Mohammad Rizwan (15) in the fourth over with only 27 runs on the board. Despite a brief 36-run stand between Usman Khan and Shai Hope, the resistance was short-lived.

Arif Yaqoob removed Hope (20) in the seventh over, opening the floodgates for a collapse that saw Multan Sultans lose their remaining eight wickets for just 44 runs.

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Usman was the only batter to offer any real fight, scoring a 22-ball 44 laced with four fours and three sixes, but it wasn’t enough to rescue the innings.

Young pacer Ali Raza was the pick of the bowlers for Peshawar Zalmi, grabbing 4/21 in his four overs. Arif Yaqoob showed his brilliance by grabbing three wickets, while Mitchell Owen chipped in with two.

This commanding result eclipsed the previous best margin of victory Peshawar Zalmi, which was a 76-run win over Quetta Gladiators last season.

While speaking during the PSL 10 match, Cork emphasized on Ali’s potential, stressing the need for smarter management with the young bowler.

“Ali Raza is a real talent – look after him. Focus on core strength and stability, ” he said.

“It’s not just about lifting heavy but managing it smartly. Nurture him. We’ve seen pacers like Ihsanullah shine and then struggle post-injury. Don’t repeat that,” Cork added.

It is worth mentioning that West Indies’ legendary cricketer and renowned commentator Ian Bishop has lauded Ali Raza’s abilities on several occasions.

Ian Bishop took to Twitter to express his admiration for the exceptional skills of a young pacer following their impressive performances in the Under-19 and domestic tournaments.

The 17-year-old fast bowler, who debuted in first-class cricket last year, has started impressively, taking 32 wickets in just six matches.

READ: Peshawar Zalmi create history with dominant victory over Multan Sultans