Speaking exclusively to Pakpassion.net from New Zealand, tour manager Shafqat Rana stated that spirits were very high amongst the Pakistan under 19 squad.

"All the boys are fit and in very good spirits. The win against the West Indies was very pleasing and there is a good atmosphere in the squad".

Rana feels that preparation has gone very well for the World Cup and stated "We have had 10 days of very good preparation in New Zealand having beaten the hosts 2 - 1 in a three match series. It was a very good decision by the board to arrange these matches in New Zealand prior to the World Cup. The majority of the squad have been together for 3 months having played a tri series competition in Sri Lanka and this has helped in the boys getting to know each other very well".

Rana continued "It's always important to start off well and I was happy with the performance against the West Indies. The spin trio of Usman Qadir, Raza Hasan and Ahmed Shehzad did very well and I think they will be very important during the course of this tournament. Babar and Azeem were superb with the bat and hopefully our batting lineup can continue to click. The wicket is excellent for batting and we play all our group matches at this venue".

Looking ahead to Pakistan's next match against Papua New Guinea, Rana stated "You cannot take any team lightly and need to have the same amount of intensity in every match. All the boys are fit and looking forward to the game on Monday".


Pakistan Under 19s having beaten West Indies, next play against Papua New Guinea and then take on Bangladesh in their final group match.