Watch: Babar Azam's wonderful speech as he presents debut cap to Muhammad Hurraira

Former Pakistan skipper Babar Azam presented young batter Muhammad Hurraira with his maiden Test cap ahead of the start of play on Day 1 of the first Test match against the West Indies. Babar Azam encouraged Muhammad Hurraira to let the moment sink in and backed the debutant to express himself.

Huraira replaced Saim Ayub in Pakistan's playing XI for the 1st Test against the West Indies in Multan. The 22-year-old batter is known for his strong domestic cricket performances. Pakistan skipper Shan Masood won the toss and chose to bat first at the Multan Cricket Stadium in Multan on Friday, January 17.

It Is an Honor That I Am Giving a Test Cap - Babar Azam

Babar Azam said that it was an honor to present the Test cap to Muhammad Hurraira. Azam encouraged him to seize the opportunity, just as he has throughout his cricket career.

"First of all, many congratulations. For me, it is an honor that I am giving a test cap. This test cap is very important for Pakistan and for you, and my wish is that just like you have played your cricket career, whether it’s domestic or international, whenever you have gotten an opportunity, you’ve availed it and tried to make Pakistan proud. Today is the time for you to avail this opportunity and make the best debut possible," Babar said.

Proud moment for the youngster: @realhurraira receives his Test debut cap from @babarazam258 🧢✨#PAKvWI | #RedBallRumble pic.twitter.com/ftlq08pTMV

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) January 17, 2025

Huraira First Gained Recognition During the 2020 ICC Under-19 World Cup

Huraira first gained recognition during the 2020 ICC Under-19 World Cup, where he played a crucial role for Pakistan. He delivered an impressive knock in the quarter-final against Afghanistan, scoring a match-winning 64 off 76 balls that secured a six-wicket victory and earned him the Player of the Match title.

In 2023, he was selected for Pakistan’s squad for a series against Sri Lanka but did not get the opportunity to play. He scored a double-century for Pakistan A in a first-class match in July 2024. Huraira has showcased his talent and solid technique, with over 3,400 runs at a first-class average of 56.24.

We're All Backing Muhammad Hurraira – Shan Masood

Shan Masood, after winning the toss, emphasized the importance of becoming a tough team to beat at home. Masood confirmed Muhammad Hurraira's debut, stating that the team is fully supporting the young player. He also highlighted the desire to replicate their performances from the England series.

"Going to have a bat first keeping conditions in mind. We have to look at our home conditions and think of ways we can become a difficult side to beat at home. We would like to have a strong hold in certain set of conditions. Always exciting to take the first ball for Pakistan. We've got the young Hurraira making his debut. We're all backing him. Want to replicate performances from England," Masood said.

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