Clarke to play in T20 tournament in Hong Kong

Cricket365
May 24, 2016

Former Australia captain Michael Clarke will try to launch his T20 career in Hong Kong, signing up to play for the Kowloon Cantons in the Hong Kong Blitz tournament later this month.

The 35-year-old Clarke, who retired from international cricket after the Ashes in August last year, has indicated that he wants to play in T20 domestic leagues around the world and he has to start somewhere.

Clarke told News Limited: "I am really excited to be playing with the Kowloon Cantons in the upcoming T20 tournament.

"I can't wait to meet my teammates and experience the city, while also hopefully contributing to the game of cricket in Hong Kong which I know has been coming on leaps and bounds in recent years."

The organises of the tournament in Honk Kong are delighted that they have secured a World Cup winner to take part in the event – that will take place from 27 to 29 May – as they try and grow the game in East Asia.

Hong Kong Cricket Association chief executive Tim Cutler said: "Hong Kong cricket has delivered many firsts recently, however to have a recent Test captain who oversaw a famous Ashes whitewash, the 2015 World Cup victory and whom sat atop the world batting rankings a number of times is just incredible.

"Not only does this vindicate the effort in putting the tournament together, it also shows the growth of cricket in East Asia.

"With over 80,000 participants in China there is immense potential in East Asia.

"With rugby and soccer both making strategic plays into the nascent Chinese sporting market, we look forward to working with the ICC and Asian Cricket Council in growing cricket throughout the region."