Zulqarnain Haider - International Career

International Career

With regular wicket-keeper Kamran Akmal suffering from a prolonged period of poor form in both his roles as 'keeper and batsman, Pakistan were searching for backup. As a result, Haider was drafted into Pakistan's 17-man squad to tour South Africa in January 2007. He made his Twenty20 International debut on the tour, assuming 'keeping duties from Akmal who acted as a specialist batsman. South Africa won by ten wickets, and Haider contributed five runs to Pakistan's total of 129 all out.

Haider's had to wait more than three years for his next international match. In July 2010, Pakistan toured England for four Tests, five ODIs, and two T20Is; Haider was included in the touring squad. After a pair and several missed chances behind the stumps, Akmal was dropped in favour of Haider. In the first innings Haider was dismissed first ball by fast bowler Stuart Broad, and nearly succumbed to his first ball in the second innings. Initially given out to spinner Graeme Swann, Haider reviewed the decision and was reprieved. Haider exploited the opportunity and made 88 before he was dismissed, and enthusiastically celebrated his half-century. Days later it was revealed that Haider had suffered a fractured finger that could have been exacerbated after being hit on the hand by a throw from Stuart Broad. He played no further part in the series. When Pakistan played South Africa in October 2010 for two T20Is and five ODIs, Haider was included in the 15-man squad as the only specialist wicket-keeper. In the first four ODIs Haider took three catches and scored 48 runs.