Amazon Warriors Performance Analyst lands role with Afghanistan men’s team

By Avenash Ramzan

Saurabh Walkar, the Guyana Amazon Warriors Performance Analyst, has ticked another box in his career, after being appointed as Performance Analyst of the Afghanistan men’s cricket team.

Speaking to News Room Sport moments before linking up with the Afghan side, Walkar of India said the contract will last for a year.

His first assignment is the upcoming three-match ODI series between Afghanistan and Ireland in Abu Dhabi. Matches are slated for January 21, 24 and 26.

This is the first time Walkar will be working along with a Test playing nation.

“As a player you aim to play at the highest level. As an Analyst, it’s the same because representing a Test playing nation is something you look forward to,” Walkar said.

“In terms of my reaction to the news, I was a bit nervous, a bit tense, but happy at the same time. Looking ahead, I’m just trying to keep it simple and contribute to the success of the team.”

Walkar was part of the Guyana Amazon Warriors coaching set-up in 2019, performing the role of Performance Analyst, when the franchise went on an 11-match unbeaten run before losing in the final.

He also featured in Mumbai’s technical team in the Ranji Trophy, India’s First-Class competition, for eight seasons. On two occasions during that time Mumbai lifted the title.

In early 2019, Walkar left the Mumbai unit to take up a role with Pakistan Super League side Multan Sultans. Incidentally, he was convinced to take up the role there by Multan Sultans coach Johan Botha, who has been the Amazon Warriors coach since 2018.

Walkar was also a Performance Analyst with Indian Premier League side Rajasthan Royals for three seasons.