Rising Star Pacer Considered for PCB’s Proposed US Training Program

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering rising fast bowler Ali Raza for a proposed development program in the United States to expose emerging cricketers to advanced training methods and specialist coaching.

White-ball head coach Mike Hesson recently confirmed that the PCB is exploring the idea of sending a group of players abroad for a development program focused on power-hitting, injury rehabilitation and modern training environments.

Ali Raza, 18, is regarded as one of Pakistan’s most exciting white-ball pace prospects. The young pacer played a key role in Pakistan’s ACC Under-19 Asia Cup triumph last year, taking 4-42 in the final against India, including the prized wicket of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

He further enhanced his reputation earlier this year with a hat-trick for Peshawar Zalmi in the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League. Raza finished the campaign with 10 wickets in five matches at an economy rate of 9.78.

While he is yet to make his international debut, Raza has already been named in Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming Asian Games. The PCB is now looking to carefully manage his fitness and workload as he continues his progress toward senior international cricket.

Speaking about the young pacer, Hesson said the focus is on preparing him physically for the demands of top-level cricket.

“Pace bowling wise, there’s no more injuries than there are anywhere else in the world,” Hesson said.

“We’re trying to get Ali Raza fit and strong enough to deal with the demands of international cricket. It’s tough trying to be able to bowl multiple spells and sustain his pace.

“We know when he’s at his top-end pace, he’s exciting. But when the pressure ramps up, the pressures on the body ramp up. So he’s got to work on his body so he can deal with those.”

The proposed US program is expected to provide selected players with access to specialized coaching, sports science support and a different training environment over an extended period.

The PCB has yet to finalize the list of players for the program, but Ali Raza’s inclusion in the discussions underlines the board’s long-term plan to prepare emerging talent for the physical and tactical demands of international cricket.