Pakistan’s batsman Fawad Alam’s inclusion in the playing XI for the second Test against England at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton has created a new trend on the social media website Twitter on Thursday.

Fans were quick to express their excitement after skipper Azhar Ali announced Alam’s inclusion to the side, after winning the toss and opting to bat first.

The left-handed batsman last represented his country in the longest format on November 28, 2009. He returns to the side after a gap of more than 10 years.

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The 35-year-old was constantly ignored by selectors but remained in the spotlight due to his sparkling run in domestic cricket. He has faced bowlers on hostile pitches as well as flat tracks scoring 12265 runs in 166 first-class matches at an average of 56.78 with 34 centuries and 60 half-centuries.

His return is the result of consistent hard work and dedication to his craft along with being a testament to his drive to represent his country on the international stage.