KARACHI: Having absolutely dominated the domestic run-scoring charts over the last two years, Mohammad Huraira is now eyeing the next level.

The right-handed batter is all set to fly to Sri Lanka for his maiden international tour — Pakistan’s two-match Test series against the hosts — this weekend.

Huraira earned his place in the national side after topping the last season of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy batting charts with 1024 runs at an outstanding average of 73.14. He also led Northern to victory in the final with a double century.

In the preceding season of the national premier first-class tournament, he had amassed 986 at 58.

Aged just 21, Huraira’s numbers are mouthwatering, only giving a sneak peak at his potential as an international cricketer.

For the youngster, past performances don’t mean too much and longevity is what he is aiming for.

“There’s always room for improvement; one can be only near to perfection at best,” Huraira told reporters at the sidelines of Pakistan’s training session at the National Bank Stadium on Tuesday.

“Being a cricketer is not all about batting, bowling or fielding.

“Fitness, diet and the attitude on and off the pitch are real factors that show how good of a professional you are.”

Huraira may well be making his Test debut when Pakistan take on Sri Lanka in the first match on July 16 in Colombo to kick off the national side’s 2023-25 World Test Championship campaign before the second game in Colombo from July 24.

He is in good form too, joining the national side on the back of impressive performances for the Pakistan Shaheens during their recent series against Zimbabwe A.

The opener, however, faces tough competition from the likes of Shan Masood, Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq but expressed his openness to play at any position in the batting order.

“These things aren’t communicated early usually but it’s also not my domain,” Huraira said about his debut chances. “My job is to be prepared to play according to my team’s requirements and adjust in whatever role or position they want me to do so in.

“I am ready to play wherever I am asked to by the captain and coach.”

Huraira can potentially add dynamism to the Pakistan ranks with his positive approach with the bat. In his 24 first class matches, he has scored at an impressive strike rate of 69.22.

The Sialkot-born player wants to emulate the same style when he plays for Pakistan.

“I just try to play the ball on its merit but there are some adjustments that need to be made according to the conditions,” said Huraira.

“Some pitches have more bounce and pace and some offer spin.

“I personally have an attacking approach so I try to incorporate that when I am batting.”

Published in Dawn, July 5th, 2023