New recruit Zubair fails to inspire Templars
Mohammed Zubair switched sides yesterday. The fast bowler moved from RMDK Little Sai Wan to KCC Templars. But even the change of heart and allegiance failed to lift Templars, who succumbed to a thrilling six-run loss at the hands of HKCC Scorpions at the Hong Kong Cricket Club yesterday.
This is the second time in as many seasons that Zubair has changed teams. A couple of seasons ago he moved from Pakistan Association to Sai Wan and acknowledged that he made the move for money.
Last week he once again jumped ship, but this time Zubair did it with the season well under way, which raises the question if he is within the registration rules of the Hong Kong Cricket Association.
Financially hit by representing Hong Kong at the ICC Trophy in Canada earlier this year, Zubair has been in an unhappy frame of mind in recent months. In a pique, he declared that he will not represent Hong Kong again at international level, the decision stemming from the fact that he could not afford to play for Hong Kong.
The move to Templars is unlikely to have come with monetary rewards. It is doubtful that Kowloon Cricket Club would offer money. The only incentive would be free membership, or perhaps that at a nominal rate.
It is understood that Zubair had wanted to return to Pakistan Association but the latter had said no to him and former Sai Wan teammate Mohammed Jamshaid, who has now joined KCC Infidels.
Zuabir took four for 58 as he helped his new club dismiss Scorpions for 209. But Templars fell six runs short in their run chase spearheaded by Sher Lama who hit 76.
Hussain Butt meanwhile hit a sparkling 151 to lead Vagabonds to an impressive win over Pakistan Association. Chasing 294 for victory, Butt hammered the bowling as Vagabonds reached the target for the loss of three wickets.
