Future of Hong Kong cricket – Chinese players, women and the World Cup
Senior players Babar Hayat and Nizakat Khan outline what they feel are the key components in a crucial year for the sport in the city
As professional cricketers, Hong Kong captain Babar Hayat and key batsman Nizakat Khan believe their duties go beyond performing on the field. The pair also want to play a part in raising the profile of the sport in Hong Kong, particularly in helping local Chinese and women’s players fulfil their dreams.
Babar and Nizakat are among the 16 contracted players in a group of 54 who include national and development cricketers. And at a team meeting in Causeway Bay on Saturday, they spoke about their hopes for cricket in the city.
“We are professionals and we are watching the developing teams with interest,” said Nizakat. “We want the Chinese players to come forward and one day play for the senior team.
“With women as well, it would be great to one day see them becoming Hong Kong Sports Institute athletes [like us].
“We see the women’s rugby players at various age groups there and hope one day that our cricket women will also get that chance.”
