There cannot be any doubts cast on Raza’s participation in the upcoming Test match against England. He was initially seen as a question mark since the Pakistan Super League’s (PSL) resumption followed the May 17 reopening of the IPL and PSL after the calm in tensions between India and Pakistan. The Test match in Trent Bridge was planned for 22-25 May. Raza had to clear up the matter of his availability before he confirmed on social media.
After wrapping up his franchise commitments, this will mark Raza’s first return to the Test squad since January. He was to return to Pakistan to complete the league stage with the Lahore Qalandars as well. He kept it cool on Instagram by saying Aa raha hoon, or I am coming, the update being a cue for his fans on his journey.
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He also took this opportunity to resolve any discrepancies about his availability for the PSL and the Test match, confirming that national duty is first and foremost: All the reports of me missing the Test match are not true at all,” he said on X (formerly Twitter).
In the final league match, the Lahore Qalandars will take on Peshawar Zalmi in a game where their qualification depends on the result. Further, it is probable that the management has insisted that Raza feature in this match prior to his departure to prepare for the Test. Given that the PSL final has been pushed to May 25, Raza may have to bump the playoffs if his side reaches that far.
Raza although missed the Tests against Ireland and Bangladesh earlier this year because of his commitments in the ILT20 and PSL.
