By Haroon Khan ( 17th August, 2011 )

 

When one hears the name Rameez Raja mentioned in any cricketing context, one can be forgiven to assume that the person being referred to is none other than ex-cricketer and informative voice of Pakistan on the cricket pitch, Rameez Raja Sr the television commentator. Yet in the upcoming tour to Zimbabwe, we may see the birth of a new sensation from Pakistan – the exciting young top order batsmen from the Karachi Dolphins, Rameez Raja Jr.

Rameez Raja Jr spoke exclusively to PakPassion.net with the same confidence as his namesake, on his ambitions and expectations as he embarks on his first tour with the Pakistani National Team to Zimbabwe.

The promotion of Rameez Raja has come as a result of a breakthrough 2011 season with the willow. While he successfully represented Pakistan in youth age groups, it was only this year that he began making great waves in the Pakistani domestic scene. When queried as to whether an adjustment to his batting was the reason for the rapid rise, Rameez was humble in his response. “I think I didn't bring too many changes to my game, it is just opportunities have finally begun coming my way.”

Prior to this season which was Rameez’s fifth, he had remained for all intents and purposes an observer and a squad member. “I have been a part of the Karachi Dolphins squad for the last three seasons, but I wasn't able to break into the playing XI mainly due to the team being such a senior squad,” Rameez added. “This year as a result of a successful Quaid-E-Azam trophy and being the best batsmen in Division 1, I was finally able to get a chance with the Dolphins which I took full advantage of.”

The calls for his inclusion into the national squad from all quarters became deafening when he stole the show in the Faysal Bank T20 Cup, scoring 238 runs over 5 games at a strike rate over 150. It included a quickfire 64 of 46 balls (including 5 sixes) in the final which was unfortunately not enough as the Karachi Dolphins went down to the Rawalpindi Rams in the super over.

The 24 year old right hand batsmen was the leading run-scorer in the tournament and outshone more established international teammates in the Karachi Dolphins in Khalid Latif, Asad Shafiq, Fawad Alam and Shahzaib Hasan and was fittingly named batsman of the tournament. Former selector Shoaib Mohammad and his Karachi coach Azam Khan have led the chorus of supporters asking for his inclusion. That opportunity has finally come with Rameez’s name being announced as part of the squad of 16 to embark on a tour of Zimbabwe, which includes 1 test match, 3 ODI and 2 T20I.

Rameez, who has toured Malaysia, Sri Lanka and India, was understandably excited about the opportunity to tour outside of Asia. “I want to have a memorable debut series for Pakistan - I want to make a memorable introduction to International Cricket.” Rameez also added that “I want to then establish myself in the Pakistan side in all formats and to play for Pakistan (God Willing) for many years to come.”

The step up from domestic cricket to international cricket is a daunting one even for the strongest of characters. Many recent batting inclusions to the Pakistani team have struggled while representing their country at the highest level, yet remain domestic bullies at home and Rameez wisely acknowledged the challenge he was facing. “It's all about mental toughness and how you handle the pressure. It's all about applying oneself.” Rameez said. “I understand how it is a step up from domestic cricket, but I will try and play my natural game as that is what has got me to the national team.”

Rameez also spoke of how the recent Pakistani team camp had provided a chance to learn more of the intricacies involved with international cricket. “Mohsin Khan has spent some time with me guiding me as to how to handle international cricket and how to bat against experienced and international bowlers,” Rameez said. “The camp has helped me a lot. Particularly, Mohsin Khan has helped me greatly in all aspects of my batting. He’s provided guidance on how to bat in all sorts of different circumstances and different formats.” Looking back at the experience of his first national team camp, Rameez remarked, “I now feel much more comfortable and confident with my batting.”

The Karachi born batsmen was also appreciative of the support from senior players and management at the camp. “Senior players and management support is obviously very important for a young player like myself. As you get more confidence, you play your game more openly” Rameez added. “I have spoken to Misbah and he is very friendly and he knows how to get the best out of his players.”

Rameez, who is an avid fan of Sachin Tendulkar’s batting style, was also confident he had the ability to succeed in all three formats of the game like his childhood hero. “Inshallah, I can make it into the Pakistani team in all formats of the game.” Rameez said. “I have already proven myself a capable and accomplished batsman in domestic cricket.” He has the stats this season to back that claim. In addition to his well-known exploits in the T20 game, he was also the top-scorer in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy Division One, with 801 runs from 11 games, including two centuries and five half-centuries. Rameez explosive batting has had some people earmark him as a one-dimensional player who was solely suited to the shorter format, but Rameez disagreed. “Even in T20s I play normal cricket shots and I can play long innings in four-day cricket too.”

At first glance, it appears this series will provide an ideal opportunity for Rameez to break into the national team against a young and inexperienced Zimbabwean line-up, but Rameez was unwilling to take his debut series lightly. “When you enter international cricket, I don't think the opponent matters,” Rameez was quick to add. “We are professionals, and we have to perform in each and every stage. I certainly won't be thinking that I am playing against a stronger or weaker opponent. I have to play and I have to perform, so I don't care that I am playing against Zimbabwe or Australia.”

Rameez concluded astutely, “they may be ranked lower in the rankings, but they like us are representing their country and no game can be taken lightly.” With the right temperament and application, Rameez Raja will be hoping that a successful tour to Zimbabwe opens up more opportunities in the future.