Azhar urges youngsters to take full advantage of home conditions.

KARACHI -- Senior Pakistan batsman Azhar Ali on Friday urged the brigade of young players to shed the dreaded feeling of self-doubt if they aspire to make themselves worthy for international cricket, and there is no better place than home to make a name for themselves and the country.

'The best thing for the youngsters is most of them are in the squad because of their successful stints in the domestic competitions. Playing on familiar pitches and environment are two key elements that really matter,' Azhar said while addressing a virtual media conference after the Pakistan squad continued their preparation for next week's first Test against South Africa here at the National Stadium.

'I am very hopeful the young guys will make good use of the opportunities coming their way during the South Africa series. We have already developed a positive vibe with these upcoming players who are not overawed by the pressure that can really overstretch them.'

Azhar - who is the most experienced member of Pakistan squad with 83 Tests and the highest run-getter (6,302, 17 centuries, average 42.87) - observed playing at home is a big plus for any team.

'Asian teams generally struggle playing in countries like England, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa because the playing conditions at times are pretty opposite to what we get here [at home].

'We mustn't also overlook the fact international cricket - particularly the Test format - has just returned to Pakistan after a long gap and our players have been facing a number of issues whenever we go overseas. It is not a rocket science to assume that Pakistan would hit the straps instantly because international cricket is always a challenge,' Azhar stated.

'There have been many examples of our struggles during away series because we are brought up in a different environment altogether. Pressure will remain to no matter whoever is playing. The biggest challenge is how a young player handles the pressure. In case of failures, the mind is filled with insecurities and fear of being axed prematurely.

'My message to these youngsters is: soak up pressure and learn how to handle it in various situations. But the chronic issue of insecurity is there since there is a yawning gap difference between international and [our] domestic cricket. As a senior player my simple advice to them is to have faith in themselves, trust their skills and stick with what they are doing in order to perform...