Saad Baig reflects on breakthrough ODI series, promises more for Pakistan

Lahore: Pakistan's young wicketkeeper-batter Saad Baig is aiming to convert promising performances into bigger innings as he looks to establish himself as a consistent performer at the international level.

Lahore: Pakistan’s young wicketkeeper-batter Saad Baig is aiming to convert promising performances into bigger innings as he looks to establish himself as a consistent performer at the international level.

The 20-year-old made an encouraging start to his ODI career during the recently concluded tri-nation series scoring 185 runs in five matches including his first half-century in the format.

His most notable contribution came in Saturday’s final against Sri Lanka at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Baig scored 74 runs as Pakistan chased down a target of 326 to secure a three-wicket victory and claim the tournament trophy. He also impressed behind the stumps taking three catches during the competition.

Speaking on the Pakistan Cricket Board’s digital programme Straight Drive with Salman Butt Baig discussed his international debut adapting to different batting positions and handling pressure during matches.

He said his main objective was to bring the confidence he had gained through domestic cricket into the international arena. Regardless of whether Pakistan lost early wickets or needed to build a partnership he wanted to trust his abilities and play according to his natural style.

However the young batter acknowledged that international cricket requires flexibility. He explained that players sometimes need to control their attacking instincts and adjust their approach to the match situation. Communication with batting partners he added was important in building useful partnerships.

Baig’s progress reflects his journey through Pakistan’s age-group cricket system. He represented the country at under-13 under-16 and under-19 levels before captaining the national side at the 2024 ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup.

Pakistan reached the semi-finals of that tournament but suffered a narrow one-wicket defeat against Australia.

Reflecting on his development Baig described representing the senior national team as a rewarding achievement after progressing through the junior ranks.

He expressed gratitude for his encouraging start but stressed that he viewed it as the beginning of a longer journey. His immediate priorities are to keep learning, work on areas requiring improvement and develop the consistency needed to contribute regularly to Pakistan’s success.