One could not miss the presence of the 1.96 metre tall Pakistani left-arm seamer Sohail Tanvir among South Africa’s Highveld Lions’ ranks, especially not when he ran in to bowl a clever delivery.
The Rawalpindi-born player was practising at the Motera stadium on Saturday evening. As a 23-year-old he had turned out to be a sensation for Rajasthan Royals in the inaugural IPL. He took 22 wickets, the Purple Cap and also a memorable six for 14 against Chennai Super Kings at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.
Sohail is delighted to be back in India after five years and also that Faisalabad Wolves got the opportunity to play at Mohali.
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“Everyone in India and Pakistan knows that cricket unites the people of the two countries. I wish the bilateral series starts at the earliest,” said Sohail.
Recalling the memorable moments of IPL 2008, he said, “It was the best time of my life. Definitely those memories will remain. I hope I strike the same form.
“After getting the Purple Cap I have not got a chance to play in India. I am also hopeful that the IPL door opens again for us (Pakistan players).
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“I played for Rajasthan Royals and got fame. I played a crucial role in the team’s title win. So there is some affection for the Royals, but now I am fully behind the team (Highveld Lions) I am playing for,” he said.