Zimbabwean cricketer Ahsan Aqil Ali has walked a winding path in his cricketing journey – one that began as a schoolboy, paused due to family responsibilities, and reignited years later with renewed purpose.
Today, he is driven by the dream of representing Zimbabwe on the world stage.
Ali recalls his early start vividly: “I started playing cricket when I was 15, started from Prince Edward School under 15, under 16. I played under-16 match Eagles, and then I made the under-17 Zimbabwe team, toured to SA.”
“I was the best bowler of the tournament in SA, and then couldn’t make the under-19 since we didn’t have Zim A squad back then. And then I had to stop playing cricket because of family reasons.”
After stepping away from the game, he eventually returned at 27, spurred on by the encouragement of his family. “My family really had insisted I should carry on my profession in cricket. So I started playing cricket two years ago… that’s my cricket journey so far.”
The Impact of the NPL
The relaunch of his cricket career coincided with the opportunities presented by the National Premier League (NPL), which Ali describes as a game-changer.
“It’s a big thanks to Zimbabwe Cricket, Zimbabwe Cricket Board. They have put a National Premier League, especially for the people who want to play cricket professionally. For me, it has been wonderful since I was a player of the tournament last year in NPL.”
The platform gave him national exposure and paved the way for him to join the Rhinos franchise.
“Since it’s a National Premier League, you know, that’s where people recognise you as a cricketer. And then I got a chance to play for Rhinos… Luckily, in my second first-class game, I scored 100 against Mash Eagles at Harare Sports Club.”
For aspiring cricketers, Ali is clear: “I would just advise them to play National Premier League, since that’s the best platform for everyone who wants to get into professional cricket, especially going up there.”
Ali was named MVP for his maiden NPL season, turning out for Mbizo.
A Memorable First-Class Debut Season
Reflecting on his debut season with the Rhinos, Ali is quick to credit those who supported him.
“Last year was my first year playing for Rhinos. It’s been a wonderful year for me, a wonderful season since it was my debut season. Our staff, especially our coach, Adam Chifo, he’s been a wonderful coach to me. He’s been guiding me since day one, even till now.”
The camaraderie within the team also stood out.
“The management and the manager and everyone, and the captain, coaches, players, everyone’s been so, so good to me and so supportive. Special thanks to everyone from Rhinos. It’s been a wonderful year to me and I’m looking forward for this year.”
This Season’s Goals
Heading into the just-ended NPL campaign, Ali set himself ambitious targets. “I had it in my mind that we would finish in top three as a club. And personally, I was looking to score 1,000 runs and somewhere 30 wickets in my pocket.”
Though he hasn’t quite reached those lofty numbers, he remains grounded and grateful. “So far, I’m sitting on 600 with two games remaining. On wickets, I think I have 13 wickets in my pocket.
“To me, I’m so grateful to the Almighty Allah that I’m still doing good. Not what I planned, but still, whatever I’m getting, I’m grateful. And it’s just good.”
Ali inished the season with 628 runs and 17 wickets. He captained Alex Cricket Club to the NPL T20 Blast in their debut season.
The Dream of Playing for Zimbabwe
For Ali, all roads lead to one ultimate ambition: representing his country. “As a kid, when I started playing cricket at 15, I was hoping to play for Zimbabwe sooner, but due to family reasons, I couldn’t play back then. So, yeah, the initial plan is to play for Zimbabwe and hopefully to put Zimbabwe number one in the world table.”
His aspirations go beyond simply making the team — he dreams of becoming one of the world’s best.
“Hopefully one day I will be the best player of the world. I mean, best batsman and best bowler, best all-rounder… and hopefully we’ll take Zimbabwe’s flag up there whereby people can see that Zimbabwe cricket is there to be recognised.”
With determination in his voice, Ali concludes: “Hopefully, inshallah, one day that dream will come true.”
