“You’re going to be bowling all day, you’re going to have a big spell.”
Mansoor Ahmad knew he was in for a long afternoon when his captain Jordan Downes gave him these instructions.
In Ahmad’s words, he was asked to perform a task, and had to follow through for his side.
And follow through he did, finishing with career-best bowling figures of 7/78 from 22 overs for his beloved Marygoons against Kerala Strikers in CCCA E Grade on Saturday.
Ahmad’s wily inswingers caused headaches for the Strikers’ batters, unable to keep the veteran at bay for prolonged periods as he bowled into the wind for the duration of Kelara’s batting innings.
Five times he rearranged his opponents’ hardware in a brilliant display for his side that kept the Strikers to 196.
In reply, the NNG/Maryknoll is 2/47 at stumps, needing a further 150 from the eight remaining batters.
Ahmad made his name for the Marygoons in District cricket, but chose to step down from the level as personal circumstances meant he was unable to commit to a full season.
“I’m not committed that much because of work and I’ve aged a bit, so the eyesight is not there anymore,” Ahmad said.
“I did retire, but they asked me to come back and fill-in a few games here and there whenever I’m available.
“The love for the game is still there.”
While no-longer coaching, Ahmad embraced his role as a senior figure in the side, offering his guidance and knowledge to younger members of the squad.
“Jordy (Downes) does ask me for help as a senior player,” he explained.
“I enjoy that side I of it.
“I wanted to give the younger guys the wind.
“The wind was alright, I don’t have a big run up.
“I’ll still be around the club no-matter what.”
