Qatar’s Veteran Cricketers Make Historic Debut at Over-40s World Cup

rki.news
By Haroon Rashid Qureshi

Doha, Qatar – November 2025 – In a landmark moment for Qatari cricket, Adnan Khan, Badar Atique, and Hasham Khan have been selected to represent the Rest of the World XI at the International Masters Cricket (IMC) Over-40s T20 World Cup, beginning November 21, 2025, at Karachi’s National Stadium. Their selection marks a significant milestone for Qatar’s cricketing community and opens doors for the country’s future in international veterans’ cricket.
This achievement reflects Qatar’s vibrant, multi-national cricket scene, nurtured by players from the UK, Canada, Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal. It also underscores Qatar’s commitment to sports development, exemplified by National Sports Day, a public holiday dedicated to promoting health and athleticism nationwide.
“This isn’t just a tournament; it’s a reconnaissance mission for Qatari cricket,” said a veteran cricket analyst. “The performance of this trio on a stage alongside legends like Pakistan’s Abdul Razzaq could pave the way for an official Qatari veterans’ team.”
Experience and Talent
Badar Atique brings invaluable international experience, having represented Canada in the 2023 IMC Global Cup in Pakistan. Alongside the all-round abilities of Adnan Khan and Hasham Khan, the trio faces tough competition in Group B, which includes Australia, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, USA, and the Rest of the Gulf. Their performance will be a key measure of Qatar’s potential in veteran cricket.
Farewell Event Inspires Future Vision
A farewell dinner at Spice & Sizzle on November 16 celebrated the players’ selection and sparked a broader vision: the establishment of a Qatar Veterans Cricket Association. This initiative aims to structure pathways for Over-40s and Over-50s players to represent Qatar internationally.
“This is a proud moment for the community,” said Qaiser Khan, a local cricket organiser. “Having three of our members in a major international tournament is just the beginning. We look forward to seeing more Qatari talent shine globally.”
About IMC
The International Masters Cricket (IMC) governs Masters cricket worldwide, promoting competitive play for cricketers over 40. Its World Cup events celebrate the enduring spirit of the sport while providing a global platform for veteran players to showcase their skills and passion.