Introduction of Iqbal Sikandar’s Appointment
Iqbal Sikandar, the former Pakistani cricketer, has been officially appointed as the General Manager of Cricket at the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation. This significant appointment was announced by the Saudi Cricket Federation, which expressed that Sikandar’s appointment reflects their commitment to developing cricket in Saudi Arabia and strengthening the sport’s position as a major part of the country’s sports culture.
Iqbal Sikandar’s Cricket Career
Sikandar has had a distinguished cricket career, representing Pakistan in several capacities. He played four One Day International (ODI) matches and was a key member of Pakistan’s 1992 World Cup-winning team. His achievements in both domestic and international cricket have garnered him widespread admiration and respect.
Cricket’s Popularity in Saudi Arabia
Cricket has enjoyed growing popularity in Saudi Arabia for over five decades, largely due to the presence of a significant Asian expatriate community. Today, cricket is the second most-watched sport in the world, following football. Saudi Arabia’s thriving cricket scene has attracted global attention, with the sport continually expanding its footprint in the region.
Sikandar’s Role in Saudi Arabian Cricket
In his new role, Sikandar will be responsible for overseeing the development of cricket in Saudi Arabia, focusing on both grassroots and professional levels. He brings extensive experience from his previous roles as a coach and mentor in various international cricketing bodies. His deep understanding of the game, combined with his past experience working with teams in Afghanistan and Oman, positions him as a strong leader for Saudi cricket.
Iqbal Sikandar’s Playing and Coaching Experience
Sikandar has an impressive playing record, having played 189 First-Class matches in which he took 658 wickets and scored 4,204 runs. His bowling style was recognized for its leg-spin and googly variations, making him a valuable asset in both domestic and international cricket arenas. Sikandar has also represented several teams, including Bahawalpur, Hyderabad (Pakistan), Karachi, and Pakistan International Airlines, in addition to Pakistan’s national team.
Leadership Roles and International Experience
Apart from his playing career, Sikandar has served in several coaching and leadership roles. He has worked as a Development Officer for the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), where he was involved in the establishment of cricket in Afghanistan and other countries. He also coached the national teams of Afghanistan and Oman, helping them prepare for major international tournaments.
In 2017, Sikandar coached Saudi Arabia’s national team during the Asia Qualifiers, and in 2013, he served as the coach during the ACC T20 Championship. Sikandar’s experience also extends to commentary roles at PTI and Star Sports, as well as serving as an ICC match referee.
The Future of Cricket in Saudi Arabia
With Iqbal Sikandar at the helm, Saudi Arabia’s cricket ambitions are set to reach new heights. His extensive experience both as a player and coach, combined with his leadership skills, will help shape the future of the sport in the region. The Saudi Cricket Federation’s decision to appoint him highlights their continued commitment to the sport and to nurturing local talent for international competitions.
This appointment represents a major milestone for Saudi Arabian cricket, and Sikandar’s vision and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to the sport’s growth and success in the Kingdom.
