Bashir blow for Hollinwood

HOLLINWOOD have turned to Asif Iqbal to deputise for fellow Pakistani professional Aamir Bashir for the remainder of the Saddleworth and District Cricket League season.

Bashir, who has spent the last seven years as the Lime Lane outfit’s paid man, has been at home in Lahore awaiting results of a medical.

The 38-year-old all-rounder missed the first half of the 2008 season because of illness and was asked to attend hospital as a routine follow-up.

But Bashir, who played in Pakistan over the winter, has been told to rest.

Hollinwood captain John Winterbottom said: “Aamir was hoping to arrive here at the end of May, but now he’s not coming at all.

“It’s very disappointing for everyone concerned, especially Aamir, but his health is more important than a game of cricket.”

Iqbal, who is primarily a batsman, has already stepped in for Bashir this season.

He scored 45 vital runs in Hollinwood’s two-wicket win at Stayley last weekend.

Winterbottom said: “Asif is a good player and a good lad, so I’m sure he’ll do well.

“He is also a qualified coach and the juniors at the club have really taken to him.”



BAMFORD Fieldhouse are one step away from the regional final of the Cockspur Cup.
The Hollin Lane outfit are at home to Clifton, from the CLL, in the last four on Sunday.