Soulat “Sunni” Ali’s remarkable achievement of reaching his 350th league wicket for Harlow Cricket Club during the 2025 season stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication, extraordinary skill, and enduring influence within the club.

This celebratory report details Sunni’s journey with Harlow CC since joining in 2011, highlights his outstanding records in both bowling and batting, explores his impact on the team’s culture, and recognises his status as a valued club member. For club members and cricket enthusiasts alike, Sunni’s story is not merely an account of statistics—it is a source of inspiration and pride.

Sunni’s Journey at Harlow CC

Sunni joined Harlow Cricket Club in 2011, quickly establishing himself as a key figure both on and off the pitch. Recruited for his talent and passion for the game, Sunni’s early seasons were marked by energetic displays and a drive to compete at the highest level. Club records reflect that, from his first match, Sunni brought a competitive edge and professionalism that galvanised his teammates.

Bowling Career Highlights

Sunni’s bowling statistics are exceptional, with consistent performances each season driving him towards the coveted 350-wicket mark.

His best bowling figures, such as 7 wickets for 31 runs in 2015, remain legendary. Sunni’s consistency is further evidenced by multiple five-wicket hauls and match-turning spells, with his ability to break partnerships and apply pressure in critical moments.

Sunni for many seasons, took over 30 wickets across the year – a truly magnificent achievement. His best year came in 2013 when he took 48 league wickets. His opening partnerships with Mo would often set the team up for a winning performance.

Whilst the majority of Sunni’s wickets have come in the 3rd XI, you will find Sunni taking to the field in the 2nd XI these days. Sunni shares all of his experience to the younger players coming through whilst also maintaining his high performance standards.

Sunni’s average with the ball, sitting at 19.86, is exceptional for an opening and death bowler. He will restrict teams from the start putting Harlow CC on top in games, allowing others to bowl with freedom.

Batting Achievements

Whilst we are celebrating Sunni the bowler, he is by no means a one-trick pony. Sunni has scored 4794 runs at an average of 31.75. Not too bad for a middle order batsmen!
Sunni has scored 25 half centuries and 3 centuries during his HCC career.
I’m sure we will be celebrating Sunni passing 5000 runs during the 2026 season.

Contribution to Club Culture

Sunni’s impact transcends statistics; his infectious enthusiasm and generosity have shaped Harlow CC’s culture for the better. He is renowned for organising themed club nights, from traditional curry evenings, strengthening bonds between players and families. As a mentor, Sunni has guided younger bowlers, sharing tips and encouragement that have accelerated their development.

His leadership off the field is reflected in his welcoming nature and commitment to inclusion, ensuring new members feel at home from day one.

Recognition and Awards

Sunni’s contributions have been formally recognised through several club honours:
• 3rd XI Player of the Year (2012, 2013, 2022, 2023)
• 2nd XI Players’ Player Award (2025)

These accolades reflect the esteem in which Sunni is held by both teammates and club officials. His name is synonymous with integrity, commitment, and sportsmanship.

On behalf of Harlow Cricket Club, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Soulat “Sunni” Ali on reaching his 350th league wicket.

This milestone represents not only a personal triumph but a chapter in the history of our club. Sunni’s dedication, talent, and spirit inspire all who have the privilege of playing alongside him. Here’s to many more wickets, more runs, and more memories—Sunni, you have truly left an indelible mark on Harlow CC, and we salute you!

May your journey continue with the same passion and excellence, bringing further success and joy to yourself and the club.

We caught up with Sunni shortly after he achieved this achievement during the 2025 season to ask him a few questions...

When did you first play cricket?
I started my interaction with cricket as young as I can remember. There is a photo of me swinging the bat in our living room in Lahore. May be I was 3.

What got you into cricket? Any inspiring cricketers you base yourself on?
Definitely it was my Dad who introduced me to the game. He used to play for the national career, PIA (Pakistan International Airline). It was a big deal then. I still remember when he took me for the first time to his game. I was so much attracted towards the game straight away that I still remember the feeling after all these years. A neatly manicured cricket field, evenly cut beautiful green grass all around the square in a well rounded boundary rope. With players wearing graceful whites and one of them holding the red cricket ball at the start of his run up to bowl the first delivery of the day. I fell head over heels with the whole setup. I felt privileged only watching, let alone playing. First ball of a test match still fascinates me the most.

In my childhood there was always cricket gear at my disposal. I ruined all that stuff before I grew up to the right size to use it. The most regrettable was my Dad’s very fine Gray Nicolls bat with which I played every where but in actual facility. In Pakistan majority plays with tennis ball wrapped around in plastic tape, which makes the ball travel enormously fast. When I was 15, I played for a cricket club for one year only, other than that it was only tennis ball cricket while I was there. I was more into basketball from year 7 to university. Played above amateur level but never professionally. I was an average student but got sports scholarships in college and university on the basis of basketball. Harlow CC was almost my first proper cricketing experience.

How long have you played for Harlow CC?
I joined Harlow CC in mid-season of 2011 and was very much welcomed by the finest people around, Dave Whellams, Alan Burton and Mike Prodger. The atmosphere was so positive and helpful that I never looked to go somewhere else to play.

What is your most memorable cricketing moment?
There are many where the intensity in the competition was of highest level. My top favourites are;

- Stokes at Headingly
- Amir’s opening spell in CT Final
- Wahab Riaz’s spell to Shane Watson
- Virat’s pep talk before 4th innings at Lords 2021
- India’s test series win in Australia 2021
- England’s super over win against NZ

Such moments keep you loving the game more and more.

What is your most memorable cricketing moment for Harlow CC?
Whenever I significantly contributed to finish the game for my team is memorable. Lets leave it there :)

Any other major events/achievements/proud moments whilst at Harlow CC?
I played mostly in 3s and 2s, there’s nothing major I achieved worth mentioning. But one thing I am absolutely proud of is that I enjoyed the game and my kids have started playing while I am still at it. Other than that, every passing week without an injury is a blessing :)

Any other comments...
A huge thankyou to all of those who are involved in providing the opportunity for players like me who just want to play competitive cricket with friends and family around. That is much appreciated.