Published: Feb 04, 2017, 12:31 PM (IST)
Edited: Feb 04, 2017, 12:31 PM (IST)
Two leading players in the T20I format have joined the growing list of overseas stars to have signed on for the Hong Kong T20 Blitz from March 8-12. England fast bowler Tymal Mills and Sydney Sixers all-rounder Johan Botha have joined Kowloon Cantons and Hung Hom JD Jaguars respectively. Mills, one of the most explosive fast bowlers in English cricket, capable of speeds comfortably in excess of 150kph will provide a great opportunity for domestic players to be exposed to his pace and skill. Currently playing against India, Mills has been hailed as “England’s new weapon to hurt India in T20i’s” by the Indian press.
After recovering from a congenital back condition that not only put in doubt his future in the game once but also his ability to lead a normal life, Mills has made his presence felt in T20s. “In fact, T20 is my life now and this is where I want to be. It’s a unique situation that has forced upon me but I am lucky to be doing what I do and everything I do now is great towards becoming the best player in this form of the game,” said Mills, who almost clocked at 150 km (93 mph) in two Big Bash games in Australia before coming to India.
On coming to play in Hong Kong, Mills said “I am delighted to have signed for Kowloon Cantons for the upcoming Hong Kong Blitz. It is great to be involved in such a young tournament that has the potential to grow the game significantly. Looking forward to linking up with the Kowloon Cantons family in March”.
Kowloon Cantons spokesperson said, “As always the Kowloon Cantons are taking the lead in announcing international players. Having Tymal play for us is very exciting; we have been closely following his game in India and are thrilled with his performance there. All our local boys can wait to practice with his bowling speeds”
The Jaguars, who already boast Darren Sammy and James Franklin as their overseas players are confident the form of Botha in the recent Big Bash League is an indication he can make a big impact in Hong Kong.
“Botha is a wonderful asset to have on any team XI,” observed Trevor Penny, one of the coaching staff of Hung Hom JD Jaguars.
“He can help stall the opposition’s momentum with his economical spells, as well as bolster our team scores with the bat. Botha said he is looking forward to making a difference adding Hong Kong as new destination in his cricket resume. “I’m very excited to be roaring for the Hung Hom JD Jaguars, and I can’t wait to see cricket come to Hong Kong in such a blistering way at the Hong Kong T20 Blitz,” said Botha.
The other teams participating in Hong Kong’s second T20 Blitz include Galaxy Gladiators Lantau, City Kaitak and Hong Kong Island United. All the tournament matches will be played at Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground, on 8-12 March 2017. The first four days will comprise of playoff matches against each of the other teams, while the top two teams will then progress to combat each other in the competition final on 12 March 2017.
