Rashid Khan: “If the West Indies are now looking upon us for help, then there shouldn’t be a hesitation for even a second”
Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo
Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan and the Bangladesh duo of Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal are the latest international stars to be included in the ICC Rest of the World XI squad for the Hurricane Relief T20 Challenge charity match against the West Indies.
Rashid is the top ranked Twenty20 International bowler, while he sits in second place on the ODI rankings.
As for Shakib, he sits at the summit of the Test and ODI all-rounders rankings, and in third place for Twenty20 International all-rounders.
Tamim, meanwhile, is an excellent opener in all three formats and has even scored a Twenty20 International century.
The one-off Twenty20 International will be held at Lord’s on May 31 to raise funds for five cricket grounds that were damaged by hurricanes Irma and Maria – James Ronald Webster Park in Anguilla, Dominica’s Windsor Park Stadium, Sir Viv Richards Stadium in Antigua, A.O. Shirley Recreation Ground in the British Virgin Islands and Carib Lumber Ball Park in St Maarten.
“It is a matter of great honour and pride for me and my country that I have been chosen to support one of cricket’s oldest and most loyal members,” Rashid was quoted as saying by the Lord’s website. “I don’t think it will be incorrect to say that a number of cricketers from this and previous generations were inspired and attracted to cricket due to the heroics of the West Indies sides of the 70s, 80s and 90s. And if the West Indies are now looking upon us for help, then there shouldn’t be a hesitation for even a second.
“Apart from my cricket obligations and responsibilities, the incentive of playing in this great match at the Home of Cricket at the age of 19, with and against some of the best cricketers of this generation, is just too tempting, irresistible and an icing on the cake.
“I urge all cricket fans and supporters to join hands with the match organisers and the players in making 31 May a hugely successful day so that the funds raised from this match can be reinvested into cricket that, in turn, will not only bring the smiles back on the faces of local cricket supporters but will also lead to the resumption of cricket activities in those regions.”
Tamim added: “Cricket is a sport which unites people, bridges gaps, and in which players and teams support each other. This match is a testament to this statement and I am delighted to have been chosen to once again represent the ICC World XI for a cause which will only make cricket a bigger and better sport.
“The West Indies’ contribution to the global game is unmatched and unparalleled, and if the cricket fraternity can get together to play a small role in the rebuilding of their damaged venues following last year’s hurricanes, then this is a very small price with hugely positive results.
“Playing at Lord’s is itself a great honour for any cricketer. My only international appearance there was in 2010, so I look forward to reliving those memories. Playing with and against some of the best cricketers of this era will only make this occasion better and more memorable.”