Love match: Hong Kong makes big impression on Australian cricket ace Michael Clarke despite rained-out T20 Blitz

Former Australia captain Michael Clarke said he was impressed by the passion for cricket in Hong Kong and hoped to return after his brief outing at the DTC Mobile Hong Kong T20 Blitz over the weekend.

Clarke had hit three fours in an over on Saturday in his second match for Kowloon Cantons and was just getting into his stride before rain prevented any more play in the tournament.

But the 35-year-old said he had seen enough to know Hong Kong have a strong future in the game.

“Obviously I’m very disappointed to have not played more cricket but you can’t control the weather,” Clarke said. “I think opportunities like this can only be great for the game worldwide.

“The tournament was run very professionally and the cricket was of an extremely high standard. I really don’t want to leave. I have loved my time here. I hope to be back very soon.

“It surprised me how talented some of these young players are. The love of the game is very strong within Hong Kong cricket and that is a very important foundation.

“Add that to a lot of talent and you have the recipe for success. I look forward to seeing how successful some of these young players are in a few years.”