Tasawwar books a return ticket

AYAZ TASAWWAR . . . instant impact for Uppermill

UPPERMILL have nailed down a deal to keep impressive first-season professional Ayaz Tasawwar for 2018.

The Pakistani all-rounder has been a key figure in the Leafields club's renaissance in the JW Lees Brewery Pennine Cricket League.

A left-handed batsman who hails from the Punjab, he has scored 1,180 runs at an average of 78.67.

He has brought up three centuries, including a highest score of 139, and seven 50s.

Tasawwar has also taken 49 wickets at a strike rate of 21.18.

With statistics such as those, it was no wonder Uppermill were keen to retain the 26-year-old's services as they take on the challengers of the Greater Manchester Cricket League next year.

Skipper Andrew Jones said: "Ayaz has been brilliant for us and has had a superb first season.

"We can't fault his attitude. He just gets on with it and has a good laugh as well.

"This is his first time over here and he's enjoying it. We couldn't have asked for anything more.

"Batting-wise, I think he's only failed once or possibly twice so far. He's almost guaranteed to get 50 every week.

"It's great that he's staying with us and it's nice to get it (new deal) out of the way before he goes home."

Tasawwar was to the fore as Uppermill ended Championship leaders Middleton unbeaten league record in 2017 recently.

After top scoring with 72 batting at No.3, the leg-break bowler then took a season's best of seven for 29 as the Towncroft side folded to 129 all out.

He followed up with another half-century (54 not out) as Uppermill beat Micklehurst to go joint third in the table with Milnrow.