Ashraf leads Selangor to historic Sukma cricket double

KLANG: Mohd Ashraf Azmi can pat himself on the back after becoming the first Selangor captain to lead the state to a cricket double at the Malaysia Games (Sukma).

Yesterday, Selangor (78 runs, four wickets) beat Federal Territories (76-all out) by six wickets at the Bayuemas Oval in Klang as the curtain comes down on the Games.

Selangor had earlier won the ODI (one day international – 50 overs) format.

The 21-year-old, however, said he could have contributed more with the bat.

“I was not completely satisfied with my batting performance as I was more occupied with my duties as the captain,” said Ashraf, who is set to pursue his degree in education at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).

As captain, he was responsible for field placements, bowling changes and batting combinations, responsibilities he felt had affected his individual batting performance.

However, his leadership and contribution with the ball proved crucial.

“I really wanted to be the first captain to bring home two gold medals for Selangor and it has happened,” he said.

Ashraf said humility was central to Selangor’s approach.

“I reminded the team to always remain humble.

“We knew we were strong contenders, but you can never afford to be overconfident or lack confidence.”

The achievement was particularly meaningful for Ashraf, given that Selangor’s previous cricket gold came in 2013.

“Now, my focus is on the national A team, with the ultimate goal of breaking into the main squad soon.

“Hope to get a chance to compete in the SEA Games next year.”

Ashraf, who began playing cricket at 11 at SK Taman Putra Perdana, also credited his teachers, which he addressed as Cikgu Ahmad Junaidi and Cikgu Izwan, for encouraging him to pursue the sport.

And his batting inspiration?

Indian cricketing star and batting sensation Virat Kohli.

“I absolutely love his technique.

“That’s why he’s my biggest inspiration as a batsman.”