Interview with Azurdeen Mohammed…

What are you looking forward to most in this tournament?
I am looking forward mostly to compete with the best youth players in the world and also making the most of the opportunity on the field.

Azurdeen Mohammed batting against Canada during the ICC Under-19 tournament in Canada. (Photo by Shiek Mohamed)

Tell us about the first time you put on a USA cap?
The first time I wore a USA cap was when I played against Bahamas in the ICC Americas Tournament in Canada. It was truely a dream come through and I want to keep representing my country in future tournaments.

Have you met any of your cricket heroes?
I’ve played with Shivnarine Chanderpaul.

Where do you see USA finishing in the ICC Under-19 Tournament?
The team is a very determine bunch and we can compete to win the championship. In a game of cricket no team is better than the other, it’s just who shows up with the game winning mentality on that day.

Do you have any particular goals you want to achieve in your career?
I want to be a professional cricketer for the United States and perform for this nation as long as possible.

Who have been the biggest influences on you as a player?
My family definitely is tremendous aspect of my success thus far, especially my uncle Ajaz Asgarally who is my coach and mentor since I picked up a cricket bat in this country. My club team “Meten Meer Zorg” has always supported me with my cricketing endeavors.

Who is your idol growing up?
My cricketing Idol growing up has always been Christopher Gayle.

Do you have a curfew?
I don’t have a Curfew but I don’t take full advantage of it.

Do you have a nickname?
My real name is Azurdeen Mohammed but I’m known as Andy.

What other sport do you play?
I play every other sport out there but competition wise I play basketball and bowling.

What other sport would you prefer to play beside cricket?
The only way ill choose another sport over cricket is if cricket didn’t exist. That sport would Basketball.