New era at Marlow CC as ex-England international Aftab Habib takes the helm

Credit: Marlow Cricket Club

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Marlow Cricket Club have announced that former England international Aftab ‘Affie’ Habib has joined the club as their new director of cricket.

Bringing with him a wealth of experience as both a player and a coach, Marlow hope his appointment will bring a ‘new level of ambition’ for the seasons ahead.

Marlow endured a difficult and disappointing season in Thames Valley League Division 1 last summer, winning just two of their 18 league matches.

Relegated in last place, having finished more than 70 points from safety, they’ll look to regroup under Affie’s guidance in Division 1B this season.

Affie made his name in the game playing with both flair and consistency. A flamboyant attacking batsman, most notably for Leicestershire County Cricket Club, he compiled 8,873 first class runs at an average of 41.85. He hit 21 centuries across his career and was called up to the England national cricket team test side in 1999, making his international debut against New Zealand.

From the crease he moved into coaching after hanging up his pads in 2006. Having transitioned into coaching he took on the role of head coach of the Hong Kong national cricket team, raising standards and helping them qualify for major tournaments.

Under his stewardship, Hong Kong enjoyed success in the ACC U-19 Elite Cup (and subsequent U-19 World Cup qualification) and the Women’s ACC T20 tournament before gone on to coach the Afghanistan national cricket team in 2011.

A Marlow CC statement said: “Affie arrives with a clear vision: to elevate every facet of our cricketing environment—senior teams, youth development, coaching pathways and club culture.

“His experience of playing and coaching at the highest levels means that he understands what it takes to perform, excel and sustain success.

Under his leadership, we can look forward to a strong emphasis on the development of young talent, utilising modern training, fitness and tactical programmes.

“An invigorated club culture with ambition, professionalism and fun in equal measure.

“Clear pathways for players at all levels to progress, challenge themselves and embrace leadership.

“Please join us in welcoming Affie to Marlow. We look forward to seeing his enthusiasm, expertise and energy in action — both on and off the field. Everyone at the club – players, coaches, members and supporters – will benefit from his passion for the game and his commitment to nurturing talent.

“Here’s to the next chapter of Marlow Cricket Club, with Aftab Habib at the helm.”