Optimism high in new era for club

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IT’S onwards and upwards for Oldham, who have recovered from financial issues, resignations by club officials and serious problems with their Pollards ground to look forward to the new season with much optimism.

Oldham have a new chairman and first-team captain in Rashid Hussain, who has not only built a fresh first-team but has led the drive for off-field success and stability.

He said: “I have brought together a new first team over the winter and the attitudes and individual skills of each player was carefully considered.

“These attributes are very important for us to be competitive at this level.

“We have been able to give the Pollards a facelift. I am hoping for better fortunes on the field this season and my aim is to achieve promotion to the premier division.”

That push will be led by the skipper, a right-hand batsman and off spinner, and professional Saddique Mohammed, another right-hander and medium fast bowler.

Asif Saeed and Afrasyab Khan are expected to open the innings, followed by Abdul Hamid and the professional.

The middle order will consist of Wasim Aslam and all-rounder Zoaib Sha, along with the skipper.

And, as well as the pro, pace bowling will be provided by Abdul Chaand, Munawar Mohammed and Aqeel Ashraf, and leg spin by Ben Davis-Rice.