KARACHI: Fast-bowler Hasan Ali, who has been selected for One-Day International squad for England series, says he wants to fill the void created after the retirements of Abdul Razzaq and Azhar Mehmood.

“Razzaq and Azhar are my favorite cricketers and I am well-aware of the fact that Pakistan hasn’t found any decent bowling all-rounder since their retirement. So I look forward to perform in the upcoming 50-over contests against England.

“I want to make the most of this golden opportunity and cement my position in the team,” the 22-year-old told DawnNews.

Ali, who donned Peshawar Zalmi colours in the first edition of the Pakistan Super League, termed his experience with the franchise to be invaluable.

“Rubbing shoulders with the some of the best in the business such as Shahid Afridi, Shaun Tait, and Darren Sammy helped me a lot and provided me with much-needed confidence,” he said.

Recalling how his cricketing journey transpired, the Gujranwala-born Ali said his father had once burned down his kit. “Father wanted me to focus on my studies. But when he got to know that I have been selected to play for Pakistan, he was the first one to rush to the mosque to offer prayers.”

Ali was selected in the squad on the basis of his recent List ‘A’ performances in England during a tri-nation series, comprising hosts England Lions, Sri Lanka ‘A’ and Pakistan ‘A’ teams.

He has picked up 163 wickets in 58 domestic matches across all three formats.