Khan's cup threat to old pals (From The Bolton News)

Khan's cup threat to old pals

6:50am Saturday 17th May 2008 in

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STANDISH must overcome the man who did most to help them win the Cross Cup last season if they are to retain their trophy.

The holders travel to Wigan rivals Spring View tomorrow in the first round of what is believed to be one of the oldest cup competitions in world cricket.

But standing in their way is former Standish professional Bazid Khan.

The outstanding Pakistan all-rounder took 6-41 and struck an unbeaten 86 as the Green Lane outfit defeated Golborne at Edgworth in last season's final.

Khan, who recently represented his country in two one-day internationals against Bangladesh, is one of four players, including captain Nigel Geary, who made the switch from Standish to Spring View over the winter.

But Standish won't be relishing the prospect of facing their former team-mate.

Khan has already come back to haunt his old club when the two sides met in the second week of the season.

The 26-year-old took 3-33 as Standish were all out for 122 and then hit 65 as unbeaten Spring View won it with seven wickets remaining.

One player who is looking forward to the cup clash is Geary, who led Standish to success last term and is now in charge at Dower House Farm.

"After winning it last season with Standish it would be nice to knock them out this season," said the skipper.

"We've started really well and with Bazid, who is the best professional in the league, in such sparkling form we should be confident going into the game.

"But you never know and they could always turn us over."

Geary is one of a handful of players to have links with both clubs - and he admits there will be several familiar faces lining-up against each other.

"There are so many links in both sides: Brett Collins was pro at Spring View last year is now pro for Standish, while their captain, Andrew Fox, was Spring View's first-ever professional and a fantastic servant to the club.

"There will be a lot of friendships on the field - but that doesn't stop us from wanting to win."