World T20 experience valuable for Hong Kong's Chapman

Barnaby Read 21:05 15/03/2016
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Mail
  • Pinterest
  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • WhatsApp
  • Pinterest
  • LinkedIn
  • Franchise cricket is firmly on the 21-year-old's radar.

    Hong Kong are well aware that they have a star in their midst. When Mark Chapman struck a century on his ODI debut against the UAE in November, it was a symbolic moment – the country’s efforts in creating a new generation of cricketers coming to fruition in some style.

    Chapman has gone on to become a crucial player for a Hong Kong side plotting their path up the cricketing ladder.

    The left-hander showcased his ability in his country’s defeat to Scotland at the World T20 with a classy 40 and although they struggled in qualifying, Chapman’s performances in particular will have been pleasing.

    Born and raised in Hong Kong, Chapman worked his way up through the country’s various initiatives aimed at getting youngsters into cricket.

    For him it was a ‘Junior Gappers’ session at Hong Kong Cricket Club that fanned the flame that now sees him shining brightly as part of a Hong Kong team that has won its first ODI and first-class match over the course of the past year.

    Chapman feels his early experiences of international cricket were key to his development and believes it is an approach that can continue to bear fruit for Hong Kong.

    “Having been exposed to international cricket at such a young age I feel like I’ve had to grow up a lot quicker than the average cricketer my age,” Chapman tells Sport360.

    “I’ve been very fortunate that I have been exposed to playing in different conditions around the world, against good opposition and on international grounds. I’ve had to learn on the go and I know I need to keep learning.

    “For the years I have been a part of the national side I have seen great strides in the development of Hong Kong cricket. Whilst great strides have been made, the Hong Kong Cricket Association has been proactive in trying to branch out the reach of the game, particularly to the local population.

    “Ultimately for Hong Kong to survive, compete and push for higher honours among the elite of the associates it is the future generations that will have to sustain the recent success.

    “The success of the national team has definitely sparked interest in new corners which can only be a good thing.”

    Chapman, 21, will now switch focus to completing his studies at Auckland University in New Zealand but franchise cricket is firmly on his radar.

    Netherlands coach Anton Roux pleaded last week that county coaches and franchise owners watched the Associates in these tournaments, saying players could prove both economical and inspired choices for coaches and owners.

    Associate players are getting nearer to making these inroads by showcasing their skills at every opportunity.

    Mohammad Shahzad is an obvious example for Afghanistan and his team-mate Mohammad Nabi was part of the Quetta Gladiators side that finished as runners-up in the OSL.

    Chapman's T20I career

    • Matches: 19, Innings: 18
    • Runs: 392
    • Highest Score: 63*
    • Average: 23.05

    Elsewhere, the UAE’s Mohammad Naveed is showing signs of being capable, while Ireland’s Niall and Kevin O’Brien have long been trying to make their own inroads into the frenzy of franchise cricket.

    “Franchise cricket is something I have had a little bit of exposure to in New Zealand, having played for Auckland in the recent domestic T20 competition,” Chapman explains.

    “With only one more year to complete in my university studies, that is my primary focus for now. After my studies I will be looking to put all my focus and energy into cricket.

    “Putting my name forward for overseas franchise cricket tournaments is definitely something I see myself doing in the not too distant future.”

    Chapman's T20I career

    • Matches: 19
    • Balls bowled: 60
    • Runs conceded: 77
    • 3 wickets at 25.66, Economy: 7.70

    Whether or not the likes of Chapman will have the chance to take the game to new corners of the world with increased exposure on the grand stage is up for debate.

    What is certain, however, is that T20 is giving more and more players the opportunity to earn a living from the game they love regardless of where in the world they’ve crafted their talent.

    Franchises may not be ready just yet to take the leap of faith with Associate player but it is only a matter of time; don’t be surprised if Chapman & co turn up and steal the show.

    Recommended