SA Under-19 captain Bulbulia excited by new challenge

Recently announced captain of the SA Under-19 side and new ACDC Express Tuskers recruit Muhammed Bulbulia is looking forward to the next step in his professional cricket journey.

The youngster from Rustenburg has made the decision to call Pietermaritzburg his home as he embarks on his first professional contract this season with the Tuskers.

The Maritzburg Men return to Division 1 this season and Bulbulia, after impressing for the SA Under-19 side on several occasions, will have to make that significant step up to the highest level of domestic cricket in South Africa.

The 18-year-old is understandably looking forward to making that step up in his fledgling career.

"I am extremely excited to be making the step up to senior Provincial cricket," Bulbulia said. "It's a big opportunity and a proud moment for me to represent Tuskers."

Despite only just making that step out of junior cricket, Bulbulia is hopeful that he can make himself a mainstay in the Tuskers line-up this season but isn't putting too much pressure on himself.

"My main aim this season is to establish myself as a consistent performer at senior level. My goal is to keep learning, earn my place in the starting XI and put in match winning performances.

"I know it comes with much higher standards and much more responsibility but I'm looking forward to learning, growing and contributing to the team."

Bulbulia will join a few young players in the Tuskers set-up, however there is also a strong contingent of experienced players with the likes of Wayne Parnell, Hardus Viljoen and Michael Erlank in the Tuskers ranks.

Being able to learn from these players and the rest of the squad is hugely exciting for the youngsters.

"I cannot wait to be around a squad full of experienced players and being around them will only push me to raise my game to the next level."

As mentioned, Bulbulia is currently leading the SA Under-19 side that will face Bangladesh in a three match Youth ODI series in Benoni starting on 17 July.