Pakistani coach sees China emerging as cricket power

KARACHI, July 23 (Reuters) - China is developing cricket the right way by focusing on local grassroots rather than relying on expatriates, according to a former Pakistan test player who is coaching in the country.

''The biggest plus point for the development and promotion of cricket in China is that the locals are taking interest in it,'' Rashid Khan told Reuters today on a visit to his hometown.

Khan, an all rounder who appeared in four tests and 29 one-day internationals, has been coaching in China for the last nine months.

''The local boys and girls show a lot of potential and interest in cricket,'' Khan said. ''Realistically speaking China is a viable commercial growth market (for cricket)... in the next 10 years.

''It is the ideal platform to globalise the sport.

''These people are serious about their cricket. Their fantastic sporting culture gives them a big edge over other countries where cricket is still being promoted.'' The International Cricket Council sees China as a key country for the growth of cricket. Its delegates frequently visit China and are assisting the Chinese Cricket Association in establishing more facilities.

REUTERS BJR KP1608