Jamie Atkinson boost for Hong Kong - Irfan Ahmed stars in victory over Ardingly College
Former captain Jamie Atkinson joined the rest of his teammates on Saturday as Hong Kong began their preparations for the ICC World Twenty20 qualifier with a 72-run win over Ardingly College in Sussex.
Atkinson, who was forced to stay behind after he sliced a tendon in his foot in a freak accident, has recovered and is expected to take part as Hong Kong train and play warm-up matches before the 14-team tournament begins on July 9.
The other player who was forced to stay at home, Waqas Barkat, was still waiting for his visa. Hong Kong Cricket Association officials are hopeful the former vice-captain will be able to join the rest of the squad soon.
Irfan will be the spearhead with the bat and it was pleasing to see him among the runs
Big-hitters Irfan Ahmed and Babar Hayat both made half-centuries as Hong Kong won their first warm-up match convincingly. Left-handed batsman Mark Chapman also scored 45 before retiring.
Opener Irfan, who is crucial to Hong Kong's hopes of qualifying for the bigger stage in India next year, was quick to get into the flow of things as he cracked 58 to lay the foundation for a total of 206 for three off 20 overs.
"Irfan will be the spearhead with the bat and it was pleasing to see him among the runs," said Hong Kong head coach Charlie Burke. "He will be a key player for us just like Tanwir Afzal and Haseeb Amjad with the ball."
Anas Khan took three wickets while development squad players Giacomo Lamplough and Suhaib Ahmed also got into the act with a brace each as the opposition were bowled out for 134 in 18.5 overs. Hong Kong's next warm-up game will be against the Sussex 2nd XI tomorrow.
