Bizhub Highveld Lions bring Pakistan flair to T20 Series

The bizhub Highveld Lions have secured the fine cricketing talents of two Pakistan cricketers in Shahid Afridi and Abdul Razzaq for the 2012 domestic T20 series.

The two all-rounders are set to complement an already fierce bizhub Highveld Lions’ batting attack and will also bring depth in the bowling department. “The shorter level of the game has definitely stepped up on a local level and as a franchise we are aiming to excel when this competition comes round in February. We had a taste of the Nokia CLT20 and our aim is most definitely to represent South Africa again next year,” said Chairperson, Archie Pretorius.

Negotiations with these two players had been underway for months and drew to a close in the past week. “It has been a long road to source the right players but I am finally confident that we have secured two world class cricketers in Afridi and Razzaq. I have no doubt that they are a perfect fit for the Lions’ style of play – plus they definitely match our team chemistry. Both of these factors are vital in any team’s overall performance both on the field and off. Personally, I am looking forward to working with them both as we start our quest in early Febraury for the T20 trophy,” said an elated Head Coach, Dave Nosworthy.

Chief Executive Officer, Cassim Docrat, believes the players will also bring experience to younger players. “Adding these players to the team will also benefit the exciting mix of youngsters that our squad is boasting with this season. This is an investment into our team and the benefit will last long after the competition is finished,” said Docrat.

Afridi is keen to contribute to the team's T20 campaign and has his focus on the trophy. "I am looking forward to my time in South Africa and helping the Lions qualify for next year's Champions league. I had a few offers in SA but have chosen to play in Johannesburg with the Lions," Afridi said on Sunday.

Fellow team mate, Razzaq, had the same notions about being based at Bidvest Wanderers. "My manager received several offers to play in South Africa. We made a decision on the Lions due to the fact that I have many friends in JHB and have always enjoyed my time there. I am very much looking forward to giving my 100% for the bizhub Highveld Lions and winning the T20 tournament," Razzaq said.