Masood balancing cricket and education

The youngster has been backed by batting legends like Zaheer Abbas. In Abu Dhabi he showed he has the potential to develop into a very good player. He is one the most technically sound young players in Pakistan.

Masood has also been the vice-captain of the Pakistan U-19 squad. He has also represented the Pakistan A side in its two most recent tours.

While talking to Khaleej Times exclusively, Masood narrated his journey to international cricket.

“I feel honoured to represent Pakistan in international cricket. It is always a dream of every cricketer. I got the chance, but the real work starts now,” Masood.

“Now it is up to me to grab the chance with both hands. I need consistent performances to cement my place in the team,” Masood, who scored 75 runs on his debut, said.

Masood is a rarity in modern cricket. He wants to be educated and play at the highest level at the same time.

“I joined CCP academy in Karachi which is run by Sikandar Bakht (former Pakistan fast bower). The main aim was to stay fit and be active.

“Keeping in mind my interest in the game, my parents wanted me to pursue bigger dreams. I joined UBL academy, supervised by former Pakistan international Mansoor Akhatar.

“I played Pakistan U-15 and visited the UAE under the guidance of Aaqib Javed in 2003. I was coached by Mohsin Sheikh, Mansoor Rana and Ijaz Ahmed.

“I started off at City School and then I moved to Bay View School.

“Since it was becoming too demanding to carry on both the things I left my school for the sake of cricket.

“I had to pass my O level and A level privately.”

It has been a challenge for Masood but he has handled it remarkably well. He is now pursuing a degree from Loughborough University in England. He has done two years and two more years are left in his graduation course. He is doing a long distance programme and the university allows him to play cricket and attend the lectures and seminars online.

“It was a great challenge and I accepted that. It is very hard in Pakistan to study in a good school and play cricket.

“I want to change that perception because the players who represent Pakistan mostly come from a humble background.

“I want to show my countrymen that education and cricket can go together and it will be helpful for players who come from highly educated families and players from humble background can also take courage to go for higher studies.”

Masood plays domestic cricket for Habib Bank Limited captained by Younis Khan and acknowledges that the senior fellow has played a big part in his development as a player.

“Education not only teaches you how to be successful in life, but it tells you about the hidden curriculum and ethics. An educated person can live the life in a more constructive way,” Masood concluded.

liaqat@khalejtimes.com