Raza aims to break into UAE cricket

Abu Dhabi - Raza has played in many local leagues here and the Masters Champions League

Hassan Raza is a man on a mission. Pakistan's former cricket player is trying to break into the UAE national side and considers the country as 'second home'.
Raza has played in many local leagues here and the Masters Champions League in his bid to realise his aim. "I am playing here to qualify for the UAE cricket."
Raza has still time left to gain eligibility and would miss the UAE tour to Scotland.
"Hopefully, I can play the next tour. I had a word with former coach Aaqib Javed. He told me to continue performing well in Bukhatir League and other tournaments."
"I got a hundred against UBL in the last match and another one in the semifinal," the 34-year-old said. He was the man-of-the-match in the final of the Techaccess 'A' division tournament played at Zayed Cricekt Stadium on Sunday.
Raza had an excellent domestic record in Pakistan but couldn't translate it on the international stage. His decision to join the unofficial Indian Cricket League also didn't help his cause. The ICL was not backed by the International Cricket Council.
"I played for Habib Bank Limited and have scored 37 centuries in domestic leagues back home. I needed to move on and for the last 4-5 years I am playing here in local tournaments."
Raza said he is well-prepared to make the transition from Pakistan cricket to the UAE.
"Yes, I have left my domestic league back home. I am looking forward to big leagues and tournaments in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. This is my second home."
Raza said his experience of playing in Northern Ireland league and the US has come handy while playing in various formats.
On personal front, he said his decision to move to the UAE is a struggle.  "I really miss my family."
"Old is gold," he said with a glee regarding his age.
"I still hold the world record. I made my Test debut against Zimbabwe when I was 14 years." "I hope to carry on and hopefully with the likes of UAE player Rohan Mustafa can deliver more useful partnerships."
Meanwhile, UAE player Rohan Mustafa is eyeing a berth in the team to Scotland. He made a big case for the slot with man of the tournament, man of the match awards in the semi-finals and quarters of the Techaccess cup.
He scored 244 runs and took five wickets in the just-concluded tournament.He thanked God and his mother for his performance.  "I am performing very well for last couple of months. Now am hoping to do well in the Ramadan tournament."
On the Scotland tour, he said: "That will be good tour for the UAE and I hope to make the final team."