Speaking to PakPassion.net ahead of the SAARC Under 25 tournament in the Maldives, Ali spoke of his excitement and anticipation at featuring in the Twenty20 competition.

By Saj Sadiq (October 30, 2011)

PIA and Karachi all rounder Anwar Ali’s unadulterated delight at being named in the 14 man squad for the SAARC is understandable, given the context of his aspirations to play for Pakistan at any level.

Ever since the Under 19 World Cup win in Sri Lanka in 2006, Anwar Ali's intention has been to represent Pakistan on a regular basis. However his opportunities have been limited to just one Twenty20 international against Zimbabwe 3 years ago when his only contribution was 2 overs for 19 runs.

Speaking to PakPassion.net ahead of the SAARC Under 25 tournament in the Maldives, Ali spoke of his excitement and anticipation at featuring in the Twenty20 competition.

"I'm very pleased at being selected for this tournament and I'm really looking forward to it. It's such an honour to play for one's country in any format of the game and at any level and this is a tournament that all the boys are really looking forward to competing in."

Twenty Three year old Ali has been a steady performer in domestic cricket for PIA and spoke of the importance of such a tournament for players who are on the fringes of national selection.

"There are several test nations competing in this tournament and the standard of cricket should be high and it should be a tough competition. We have a very balanced squad with no obvious weaknesses and I'm sure all of the boys will be eager to impress the selectors. We have a number of boys who have senior international experience and their input will be invaluable, especially to help the younger guys."

"It really is a great opportunity for all of us to impress the selectors especially given that there is a Twenty20 World Cup next year. The Faysal Bank Cup has just finished and now this tournament in the Maldives is taking place which gives us an excellent chance to catch the eye of the selectors."

Ali who completed another successful season in English league cricket with Morecambe further added "First and foremost the plan is to perform well as a team and then you think about your own individual performance. Who knows, some impressive performances in the Maldives and any one of us could find ourselves in upcoming squads for Pakistan and of course at the Twenty20 World Cup in Sri Lanka next year."

Pakistan take on India in their opening fixture on Tuesday 1st November before taking on Sri Lanka and Nepal.