In a week where Worcestershire players, staff and supporters alike are eagerly anticipating Saturday’s showpiece final at Trent Bridge, a familiar face from yesteryear made a welcome return to Visit Worcestershire New Road…
During his two-year spell at the club, former Pakistan captain Azhar Ali became a much-loved figure, leaving his mark on Worcestershire’s history with standout performances in both first-class and List A cricket. His bond with the club remains strong, something reflected in his visit back to New Road while spending time in the UK.
Reminiscing on his time at the club he once called home, crowd favourite, Azhar, offered an insight into the emotions the current playing group will be experiencing in the lead up to Saturday’s Metro Bank One Day Cup final against Hampshire.
“For any professional cricketer, winning trophies is very important. Personal goals are secondary and however you perform, it has to benefit the team, and that’s what makes it special when it finally comes around and the prize you have won is just there in front of you.
“Sometimes there are a few nerves around because you’ve done all the hard work, and this is time where the team will want to succeed and ultimately, win the tournament.
“But, on the other hand, you have to play a game of cricket, and I’m sure whoever holds their nerve and does the simple things right will come out as champions.
“I think they have a better chance and I’m sure the team going in will talk about that and try and do the same.”
Having played a key role in the signing of fellow Pakistani, Khurram Shahzad, for the club this summer, Ali has since been keeping a close eye on the team’s results across all formats.
With momentum behind the Rapids heading into the club’s first List A final in 21 years, the sense of opportunity is clear for everyone affiliated with the club to see, with a first piece of tangible silverware for seven years, now within touching distance.
Standing in their way, is Hampshire, a formidable white ball side, but Worcestershire fans will take an extra boost of confidence after beating their rivals once already in the competition this season, during a five-wicket win in the midst of the group stages.
After staying in contact with Khurram during his stint at the club this season, Azhar says the talk of a cup final with his countryman evokes plenty of emotions from his playing days, but urged the bowler and his teammates to trust what has served them so well in the competition to date.
“Of course, you miss what you have done all your life. But you know, I had my time here at Worcestershire and made memories that will last a lifetime, that is what makes this club so special.
“I’ve been to the Champions Trophy final and played in the in the One Day Cup final, so I understand what the build-up is and that is when I remember how much I miss it.
“I always look back on my time in cricket, but here in Worcestershire especially and there’s a lot of fond memories for me.
“When I came here and joined the club, straight away I got it.
“I was very comfortable around the team, it’s a very family orientated club, where the guys are very close to each other. I think Khurram has also experienced that and I know when we speak how much he is enjoying it here, so he must have experienced the same thing.
“I said to him, just enjoy the day. Do your processes right and play for each other.
“The result will take care of itself, and I am sure if the boys keep playing like they have been, then they will get what they deserve.”
