Rising Pakistani fast bowler Ali Raza has reportedly turned down an opportunity to feature in the ongoing 2025/26 Big Bash League (BBL 15), opting instead to remain committed to the Pakistan Under-19 setup, according to insider sources.
The young pacer was recently approached by a BBL franchise but chose to decline the offer, prioritizing his responsibilities with the national youth team.
Ali Raza has emerged as one of the standout bowlers of the U19 Asia Cup 2025, playing a decisive role in Pakistan’s title-winning campaign. In the final against arch-rivals India, he produced a match-defining spell, claiming four wickets for 42 runs, ripping through the Indian batting lineup. His ability to strike early and maintain control proved crucial in sealing a dominant victory.
That performance was no anomaly. Across his U19 career, Raza has already taken more than 30 wickets in just 15 Youth ODI innings, maintaining an average under 20 and an economy rate below five. Those numbers reflect not just effectiveness, but sustained pressure, a rare combination for a fast bowler at such a young age.
His pedigree was also evident at the 2024 U19 World Cup, where he delivered a match-turning four-wicket haul in the semi-final, showcasing his temperament in high-stakes games.
Away from youth cricket, Raza has made an immediate impact in the longer format as well, picking up double-digit wickets in first-class cricket within a handful of matches, including impressive returns on debut.
The pacer’s rapid rise continued in the Pakistan Super League (PSL X), where he enjoyed a breakout season with Peshawar, regularly bowling in the high-80s to low-90mph range and registering a four-wicket haul against senior international batters.
