Photo Credit: Melbourne Renegades
The Melbourne Renegades annual Champions League is just days away and team Pakistan are ready to go.
The six-nation tournament showcases emerging and established talent from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan with plenty of representatives fighting it out for the chance to represent their countries.
Pakistan team manager Ali Syed spoke about what it would mean for players to pull on their nation’s colours.
“I have experienced the pride and joy with the teams that have represented Pakistan in the past 2 tournaments.” Syed said
“All players, whether they were born here or came from overseas, have been excited and have used the opportunity to showcase their talent.
The Green shirts, the National anthems before the games, and support from family and friends makes this one of the most important cricket tournaments in Victoria.”
Syed has been in Australia since 1996, and moved to Melbourne in 2004 during which time he joined the Pakistan Cricket Association of Australia.
He spoke about the significance of being able to get out post the COVID-19 pandemic and rub shoulders with other passionate young cricketers.
“The atmosphere, the games, the camaraderie between players of various nationalities, the professionalism of the Melbourne Renegades management, staff and volunteers has always been a 10/10.”
With 36 fully vaccinated players trialling for Pakistan, selection will be very difficult with Syed pointing to some key names to watch out for.
“Not surprising, as Pakistan has always been famous for its pace bowling there are a few to name in Team Pakistan.”
Naeem Muhammad (who has represented in the last 2 competitions) will be supported by two emerging (under 19) players Abdul Rafay and Hashim Ali.”
“The Pakistan team batting line-up includes Victorian Premier Cricketers Haseeb Qureshi and Hamza Ali, and the seasoned Adnan Khawaja. Our wild card selection is a youngster by the name of Iftikhar Ahmed, so watch out for these names amongst a bunch of others”
The competition kicks off soon – click here for full details.
