Abdul's excellent batting against Burgh Heath in the final game of 2012 was a fitting way for our popular all-rounder to celebrate his 100th appearance for Clapham Nomads. He is the first player apart from the founder members (Todorow, Crossland, Lefebve and the Chance brothers) to reach this landmark.
I remember Abdul's first appearance for the team back in 2001 as a lively Medium Fast bowler. I would have to say that his bowling hasn't lost much, if any, pace in the last 11 years, despite various injuries.
He is a really nice guy and has been a pleasure to have in the team. He often brings his family along which makes for a nice atmosphere. It was great to meet his father a few weeks ago.
He is probably one of the most enjoyable Nomads players to watch. Apart from his bowling which often surprises opponents by coming on just a bit quicker than they expect, he produces from time a time an emphatic burst of shots, as he did in the Burgh Heath game. These tend to transform tight run chases into comfortable victories. What stands out for me, though, is his fielding. He is the best attacking thrower in the club and I cannot think of a better one in any of the teams we play either. I particularly enjoy watching some cocky youngster thinking he will sneak a cheeky single to the grey-haired chap at Cover Point or wherever. The result is more often than not a direct hit and very often a run out. This certainly makes opposing batsmen think twice before taking liberties with Abdul. They sometimes also make the mistake of assuming that all other Nomads fielders are lethal throwing machines as well.
Abdul is a very talented all-round sportsman. He has represented Great Britain at Carrom which, to simplify greatly, is a kind of cross between pool and shove-ha'penny but with much more skill. I watched Abdul in the European Championships a few years back and he just wiped the Italian No. 1 off the board. I also found out recently that he was not far away from international selection at Hockey for Pakistan back in the 80s.
It's been a pleasure playing with you Abdul. I hope there will be many more appearances.
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