Speaking exclusively to PakPassion.net Pakistan Under 19 captain Azeem Gumman stated that he was happy with his team's performance in the recently concluded tri series in Sri Lanka.

"We were so close to victory and had a great opportunity to run the Sri Lankan batsman out in the final when they scampered through for the matchwinning single" stated Azeem.

Gumman continued "The tri series was very beneficial because it gave us an opportunity to assess our team's strengths and weaknesses. I was satisified with the team's batting and bowling performance, but we really do need to work on our fielding in time for the World Cup in New Zealand".

Gumman who has featured regularly for Sui Southern Gas in this season's Quaid E Azam Trophy further added "Pakistan cricket has a bright future that I can say for definite, we have the best talent in the world at this level. There are a number of very talented boys that I think will form the nucleus of the Pakistan team in future. Babar Azam is an awesome talent, an excellent batsman at such a young age, Usman Qadir is a very good all rounder, Raza Hasan is a left arm spinner and is another who has a bright future ahead of him in my opinion".

Gumman stated "we gave an opportunity to rest some players before the Under 19 World Cup, players like Rameez Aziz didn't travel to Sri Lanka, but it gave some of the other boys a chance to show everyone what they can do".

18 year old Gumman who averages just under 50 in first class cricket stated that he enjoyed the responsibility of leading the team. "I've captained teams from a young age and I enjoy the responsibility. As a captain I believe you are always learning from your mistakes. Our coach, experienced former Pakistan batsman Ijaz Ahmed was so helpful and guided me with regards to captaincy and kept on offering me advice which was great".

Azeem and his under 19 colleagues leave Pakistan on 30th December for a tour of New Zealand that will include 3 matches against the hosts and then the World Cup.

(Article: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author only.
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