Big Notts opportunity for Woodhall Spa star Tayyab Tahir
Woodhall Spa's Pakistan international star Tayyab Tahir is relishing the chance to showcase his skills in county cricket, after signing a short-term deal with Nottinghamshire CCC.
Right-hander Tahir has enjoyed a decade in English club cricket, and comfortably tops the run-scoring charts for Woodhall Spa CC this season with 1,163 runs at 83.07.
But this will be his first experience of the county game on these shores, having signed to play in the Outlaws’ next three group-stage games in the Metro Bank One Day Cup..
“Sometimes the club cricket pitches look easy, but they can be tricky to play on!” he said.
“Things are going well with Woodhall Spa this year, but I’m really excited to play for Notts.
“I spoke to my Dad and told him I had the chance to play county cricket, and my whole family are pleased that I’ve got this opportunity.
“It’s a different environment for me, so I’m looking forward to learning things, and passing on my experience to the younger players.”
Tahir won Pakistan’s One Day Cup competition with Central Punjab in 2023, with Paul Franks serving as his head coach.
With Notts remaining firmly in contention for the knockout stages, he is keen to make an impact again under a coach he has a great deal of time for.
“I loved playing under Franksie in Pakistan, and the season we were together was one of the best of my life,” he said.
“I’ve worked with a lot of coaches, but he was one of the best. He was so approachable and created a really good environment.
“Whenever I play cricket I always play to win, and as an overseas I know you have to make a difference, so I will try my best to do that.
“I just want to make my time with Notts memorable.”
“From my time with Tayyab in Pakistan, I know he’s a player of real pedigree,” said Franks.
“His track record speaks for itself, and his positive character will fit right into our dressing room
“When we signed George Munsey for the 50-over competition, we knew he’d miss some games this week through international duty with Scotland, so we were keen to secure the best possible replacement for this week’s games.
“Tayyab is a quality player, and we’re looking forward to having him with us.”
Capped 19 times by his country, Tahir has represented Karachi Kings and Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League.