Popular pro Rafiq is going out with a bang

REHAN RAFIQ . . . respected professional

LONG-SERVING professional Rehan Rafiq gave Glodwick supporters a reminder of what they will miss next season after a sparkling display against Littleborough in the JW Lees Brewery Pennine Cricket League.

One of the most consistent paid men on the local league circuit, popular Rafiq is in his seventh and final year at Warren Lane.

Without a first-class club back home in Pakistan, he will no longer qualify as a pro in 2018, ruling out a return to Glodwick as they venture into the Greater Manchester Cricket League.

Instead, he is planning to move to America, where he has family.

Rafiq was at his sublime best at home to beaten Wood Cup semi-finalists Boro.

He scored 82 out of Glodwick's total of 224 and then took six for seven from eight stunning overs as the visitors collapsed to 92 all out.

"Rehan was excellent," said captain Nigel Stock.

"He has been playing well for a couple of weeks. He scored 90-odd against Saddleworth and 69 at Heyside the day before we played Littleborough.

"Bowling conditions earlier in the season weren't great for him with the weather not as good, but he didn't get down about it.

"He does get a bit emotional sometimes on the pitch, but don't we all?

"He's a very positive person ­- a nice guy ­- who fits in well here and it's a shame that he will be leaving us."

Shahid Mahmood made a triumphant return to the Glodwick ranks last weekend after recovering from a serious injury.

The all-rounder nearly lost his right index finger in a car accident in Pakistan before the start of the season.

ABSENCE

"I didn't think Shahid would play at all this summer, " said Stock. "His finger was in a mangled state, and even two weeks ago I wouldn't have contemplated him going out to bat."

Despite his lengthy absence from the crease, Mahmood showed no signs of rustiness with a rapid 59 from 45 balls. He also weighed in with one for 10 off five overs.