KARACHI, Dec 19: Chinese teenagers will make their debut in the Asian Under-19 Cricket Championship, team’s head coach Rashid Khan said on Wednesday.

“China is making steady progress in cricket and exposure in the under-19 event in Bangkok will further improve their skills,” Rashid, former Pakistan Test cricketer involved in coaching of young Chinese, said.

He stated that Iran and Saudi Arabia would also take part in the under-19 competition which will kick off in Bangkok on Jan 12, 2008.

He said Chinese under-15 players showed a lot of promise by reaching the semi-finals of the recently concluded ACC event in Thailand.“Chinese youngsters are picking up the game quickly,” he stated. “They are better in fast bowling but learning the spin department plus batting.”

He added the ACC is also taking keen interest in development of the sport in China.

Rashid praised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for playing a pioneer role in helping the Chinese Cricket Association develop their game.—APP