The two star performers of the Sanmar cricket team have been in the news for the last few months. Both fast bowler Lakshmipathi Balaji and left hand batsman Hemang Badani, the Sanmar captain, played key roles on India’s tour of Australia earlier this season. While Balaji’s 4 for 48 was crucial to India’s victory over Australia at Brisbane, Badani made an unbeaten 60 in a tournament final and fielded brilliantly throughout.

At the time of going to press, Balaji was continuing his good work in Pakistan where he is touring with the Indian team. Balaji’s fighting display at Rawalpindi earned him a word of praise from President Musharraf.