Lymington all-rounder Asad Abbas has been representing Pakistan in the Asian Legends T20 Cup in Thailand, marking a proud milestone in his cricketing career.

The Hampshire Seniors spin ace took seven wickets in four matches during the prestigious tournament, including impressive figures of 3-1 against Sri Lanka. Pakistan went on to finish fourth overall in a competition featuring former first-class and international players from across Asia.

For Abbas, who has played for Lymington CC for the past four years, the selection was particularly special. Although he has previously played Grade Two and Regional cricket in Pakistan, this was his first call-up to the Pakistan Legends team.

“I have played Grade Two and Regional cricket in Pakistan,” Abbas explained. “During Covid, I spent two years back home and played a lot of cricket against current and former first-class players. But this was my first time being selected for the Pakistan Legends team.”

The off-spinner made an immediate impact. His standout moment came in his very first over against India.

“My favourite wicket was in my first over against India,” he said. “I clean bowled India’s leading run scorer of the competition, Kaleem Khan, with my second ball of the match.”

It was a dream start and helped set the tone for what Abbas described as “an amazing experience”.

“It was a great experience sharing my cricket journey with players from India and other countries,” he said. “I made new friends and also met one of my friends from Sri Lanka after 30 years. It was an unexpected and very pleasant surprise.”

That reunion proved even more memorable as his former acquaintance, Capt Gayan, is now Sri Lanka’s national team manager.

After the tournament, the Pakistan Legends social media account posted: “Asad Abbas shines bright for Pakistan Legends.

“With an outstanding bowling performance, he picked up seven wickets in four matches while maintaining a very impressive economy rate, proving his class and control in pressure situations.

“A true match-winner and a key asset for the Pakistan Legends.”

Last season, he took 23 wickets for Lymington, with his best figures of 3-24 coming against New Forest side Calmore Sports.

While Abbas continues to make his mark on the international stage, cricketing success also runs in the family. His son, Monam, is currently playing for Port Fairy in Melbourne, where he has enjoyed an outstanding winter, scoring 453 runs and taking 28 wickets so far this season.