Saud Shakeel’s emotional conversation with mother post maiden call up wins hearts over internet

Playing for the nation is an ambition of most of the budding cricketers growing up. This dream of Saud Shakeel came true on Thursday (July 8) as he received his maiden Pakistan cap ahead of the first ODI against England in Cardiff. With Pakistan being a cricket-loving nation, getting in the national team is certainly not a bread and butter task. However, Shakeel earned a spot in the Pakistan XI through his hard work and determination.

Born in Karachi, Shakeel has been one of the most prolific run-scorers in the nation’s domestic circuit. He averages over 45 in List A and First-Class cricket, having scored over 2000 runs in both formats. His stellar consistency earned him a call-up for the England tour and Shakeel made his debut in the first ODI. Needless to say, the 25-year-old was enthralled and that is evident in a video posted by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

It’s a great feeling and you can’t describe it in words: Saud Shakeel

“This would be a memorable day in my life. So, I want to enjoy it. It’s a great feeling and you can’t describe it in words. I am excited and a bit nervous as well but I also have that self-confidence,” Shakeel said in the clip. He then went on to video call his mother, revealing that he has been selected in the playing XI.

Shakeel’s mother was on cloud nine after coming across the good news as she thanked almighty for blessing her son. “I have been praying a lot from the almighty and you will do extremely well,” she says. The clip then shows how Shakeel got his maiden cap from Pakistan skipper Babar Azam ahead of the game.

Meet Pakistan ODI Cap number 231, Saud Shakeel!#ENGvPAK | #HarHaalMainCricket | #BackTheBoysInGreen pic.twitter.com/BwUKyvnxpK

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) July 8, 2021

Meanwhile, Shakeel’s first taste of international cricket wasn’t a pleasant one as Pakistan suffered a humiliating nine-wicket defeat against a second-stringed England side. Batting first at the Sophia Gardens in Cardiff, the visitors lost wickets regularly and never looked in the hunt. Coming to bat at number five, Shakeel could last only 13 balls, scoring five runs. As a result, Pakistan got bundled out for 141 runs in 35.2 overs.

Chasing the mediocre total, the home team didn’t break a sweat and crossed the line in just 21.5 overs. The Ben Stokes-led side is now one up in the three-match series, and a win in this next clash would seal the deal for them. This makes the second ODI a do-or-die contest for the visitors, and they must come up with a solid game plan.