In just two seasons of first-class cricket, 21-year-old Mohammad Huraira has created a buzz with his exceptional performances. His remarkable statistics speak volumes about his talent and potential. With 2,252 runs at an average of over 68, including eight centuries and eight half-centuries in 38 innings, Huraira has caught the attention of selectors, earning him a maiden call-up to the Pakistan squad for the upcoming two-Test tour of Sri Lanka.
Huraira’s debut season in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy in 2021-22 was nothing short of a dream start. He etched his name in the record books by becoming the second youngest batsman to score a triple-century in first-class cricket on Pakistani soil, following in the footsteps of the legendary Javed Miandad. His magnificent knock of 311 runs, comprising 40 fours and four sixes, helped his team Northern secure a resounding victory over Balochistan by an innings and 170 runs at the State Bank Ground in Karachi.
Finishing as the leading run-scorer in that season and surpassing the 1,000-run mark in the following season, Huraira has displayed consistency and a hunger for runs. Over the past two years, he has accumulated the most runs for any batsman in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, amassing 2,010 runs at an impressive average of 65.
Huraira’s success can be attributed to his solid technique, composed temperament, and diverse range of strokes. His performances caught the attention of the selectors, earning him a spot in the Pakistan Shaheens tour to Zimbabwe, where he continued his impressive form, scoring a century and a half-century in two first-class matches, both resulting in victories for the team.
In an interview, Huraira emphasized his focus on the process rather than fixating on results. He attributed his success to maintaining discipline in his fitness regime, training, and diet, along with giving his best on the field. He emphasized the importance of patience in red-ball cricket, highlighting the challenging and evolving conditions that require a sharp mind and self-awareness of one’s strengths and weaknesses.
Huraira’s journey began at a young age, excelling in the Pakistan Cricket Board’s age-group program. He had a standout U19 season in 2019, finishing as the leading run-scorer in the U19 one-day tournament and making significant contributions in the three-day tournament. His performances earned him a place in the Pakistan side for the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa in 2020, where he impressed with a half-century on debut and was named the player of the match.
Coming from a prestigious lineage of Sialkot batsmen, with his uncle being former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik, Huraira found inspiration in his family. He credited his uncle for motivating him and providing valuable insights into cricket and life. With healthy discussions and guidance from Malik, Huraira has found a mentor who has played at the highest level and aims to follow in his footsteps.
Balancing his cricketing aspirations with an associate degree program in accounting and finance from the University of Sialkot, Huraira appreciates the support provided by his university, which allows him to pursue his cricketing dreams alongside his studies.
For Huraira, the selection in the Test squad is a dream come true and a chance to fulfill his aspirations. He expressed his excitement and gratitude to represent Pakistan at the highest level, acknowledging the support and prayers of his family. This is just the beginning for Huraira, and he aims to have a long and successful career wearing the Pakistan jersey.
As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the Test series against Sri Lanka, all eyes will be on Mohammad Huraira, the rising star ready to shine in the longest format of the game.
Leave a Reply