Kowloon Cantons have scored a major coup for the DTC Hong Kong T20 Blitz, securing Indian star Yusuf Pathan for the tournament played from March 8-12.

Pathan will be the first Indian to play in the Blitz tournament since its humble beginnings last year and his inclusion will serve as a major boost for the sport in Hong Kong.

Speaking about the signing, Kowloon Cantons CEO Urvashi Sethi said; “We are delighted that a player from India is joining our team. We believe that it is our love for the game and commitment to its development in Hong Kong that has enabled us to get one of the best players of this format of the game, Yusuf Pathan. An international player and in particular an Indian one attracts world attention, which is good for our local cricketers. They now have the opportunity to showcase their talent to a larger audience.”

GET YOUR TICKETS FOR THE BLITZ @ https://www.ticketflap.com/hkt20blitz

Cricket Hong Kong CEO Tim Cutler, thanked the BCCI for their clearance for Pathan, which will aid the profile of cricket in Hong Kong.

“This is amazing news and we are very appreciative of the BCCI in granting this NOC [Non Objection Certificate].”

“This will go a long way to help the development of the sport in the region and with even more stars still to be announced this is shaping up to be a superb tournament that will be enjoyed by millions across the world.

“The tireless work of the Cantons should also be acknowledged. Without the tenacity of [Cantons CEO] Urvashi Sethi-Sodhi this simply would not have happened and it is great to see the Cantons again lifting the event to greater heights with their hard work.”

Pathan is best known for smashing a century off 37 balls during the IPL in 2010 (a record at the time), that innings resulted in his price tag reaching US$2.1m for the 2011 event.

“I am very excited about being a part of the Kowloon Cantons family for the T20 in Hong Kong,” said Yusuf Pathan,

“The enthusiasm of the team is amazing and I can’t wait to meet everyone. Go Cantons!”

Snehal Parikh, Hon. Jt. Secretary, Baroda Cricket board has this to say on Yusuf Pathan coming to play in Hong Kong. “It was wonderful to learn about Kowloon Cantons inviting our Baroda hard-hitting Batsman/All Rounder Yusuf Pathan to participate in the Hong Kong T20 Blitz 2017, representing their team. Yusuf with his long and clean stroke play would, I’m confident, encourage and attract many a young talent of Hong Kong towards making a serious and professional career in the game of cricket. Wishing all the best to the young brigade of Hong Kong Cricket”