Former skipper Sarfraz Ahmed on Tuesday shed light on the rapidly growing trend of tape-ball cricket in Karachi, highlighting its increasing popularity and potential impact on the national and international cricketing landscape.
Karachi, the bustling metropolis known for its diverse culture, has once again taken the lead in revolutionizing the cricketing landscape. The emergence of tape ball cricket, a game born on the streets of Karachi, has transcended regional boundaries, capturing the hearts of cricket enthusiasts nationwide.
Sarfraz said that this grassroots form of the game played with a tennis ball wrapped in electrical tape, has become a phenomenon, showcasing the raw talent and passion for cricket that thrives in the city.
What started as a local pastime in the narrow alleys and open spaces of Karachi has now evolved into a widely embraced sporting culture, with tape ball matches being played across the length and breadth of the country.
Karachi's cricketing influence doesn't stop there; the city also holds the distinction of being the birthplace of T20 cricket, he added.
As tape ball cricket gains momentum, there is a growing sentiment among enthusiasts and experts alike that this unique format has the potential to reach a global audience. It is expected that tape ball cricket might soon find its place on the world stage, possibly culminating in a dedicated Tape Ball Cricket World Cup.
Sarfaz Ahmed expressed his excitement about the sport's widespread appeal and how it has become a common sight in neighbourhoods, parks, and even professional arenas.
Sarfraz Ahmed acknowledged the game's ability to provide an accessible platform for aspiring cricketers, especially those who may not have access to traditional cricketing equipment and facilities.
He emphasized the potential of tape-ball cricket in discovering raw talent and bringing new faces into the cricketing spotlight.