Azhar Ali excited to play first Test in his home city

Former captain of Pakistan cricket team Azhar Ali has opened up about his excitement to play his first-ever Test match in his own hometown - Lahore.

The 37-year-old made his debut for Pakistan in 2010 and since then, he has represented the national team in 93 Test matches and has piled almost 7,000 runs in his 12-year career.

However, as the third Test match kicks off against Australia, this will be the first time Azhar will be playing in his home ground as action shifts to Gaddafi Stadium.

"Very emotional feeling. Since childhood, Gaddafi Stadium has been an iconic venue for me. Whenever I passed from the ground, I used to dream about playing at the stadium," Azhar said.

"After I made my Test debut, international cricket wasn't taking place in Pakistan. UAE was our home venue. It looked like we will never be able to play international cricket in Pakistan. But, Alhumdullilah, cricket has returned to Pakistan. And it's a matter of pride and happiness for me that finally, I am getting the chance to play in my city," he added.

The player further added that he will be supported well by his family and other loved ones during the third Test match.

"Family, friends and all my loved ones will be there as they all have an attachment to the Gaddafi Stadium," he stressed.