Sydney Thunder: Record number of players trial for Bangladesh community team

Photo Credit: Sydney Thunder

HomeWorld Thunder Nation Cup community trials continue across February and March

The captain of the Bangladesh team that will represent their community in the HomeWorld Thunder Nation Cup semi finals has put rival teams on notice by saying he’s leading a team that’s talented enough to win the tournament.

“Bangladesh is a cricket crazy country, and any opportunity to represent my nation especially abroad is a dream come true – and a big responsibility as well,” said Asif Anik.

“I feel our cricketers have the talent to beat anyone on their day. However, working together as a team will be vital especially in this format of the game.”

Perhaps Anik’s confidence was inspired by the record number of players who trialled for his community’s HomeWorld Thunder Nation Cup at Bankstown Oval last Sunday. The trials were noted for its great showing of skills, sportsmanship, and comradery.

Mohaiminul Islam Chowdhury expected his game would benefit from playing in the tournament that Sydney Thunder initiated to unite people through cricket.

“Thanks to Sydney Thunder for giving me this opportunity because I’ll get to play with different players from different communities,” he said. “I’m sure it will enhance my cricket skills and I’m going to get some good experience.”

Anik said he looked forward to leading a strong Bangladesh team at the Semi-Finals day on March 14 at Blacktown International Sportspark. He said the benefits of playing in the tournament went far beyond the boundary.

“Cricket is the best way for us to make new friends and meet new people while staying fit and enjoying competitive sports,” he said. “The Thunder Nation Cup allows us to meet and play with cricket loving people from various races and countries.

“It’s a very colourful event that encourages inclusion. I have stayed in touch with people I [played with and against] in last year’s competition and it’s great to see them outside the playing field in many parts of Sydney,” said Anik.

The players selected to represent the Bangladesh community in the HomeWorld Thunder Nation Cup are:

Rajib Sarker

Shafquat Siyam

Raihan Kabir

Pulok Rema

Mohaiminul Islam Chowdhury

Asif Anik

Ashik Barman

Shimul Nath

Mohammed Al Kapi

Anirban Maitra

Fazle Rabbi

Information about registering for other HomeWorld Thunder Nation Cup trials can be found below:

Name of Author: Sydney Thunder

Sydney Thunder

The Sydney Thunder is an Australian professional cricket team competing in the Big Bash League (BBL). Based at Sydney Showground Stadium, the Thunder, along with the Sydney Sixers, succeeded the New South Wales Blues from the defunct KFC Twenty20 Big Bash.