69 Chris Sole

Biography

Christopher Barclay Sole, born on February 27, 1994, in Aberdeen, Scotland, is a prominent right-arm fast bowler and right-handed batsman who has been representing the Scottish national cricket team since 2016. In May 2024, Chris was named in Scotland’s squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, reflecting his continued importance to the national team.

Early Life and Family Background:

Chris hails from a distinguished sporting family. His father, David Sole, is a celebrated former rugby union player who captained the Scottish national team. His brother, Tom Sole, is also a cricketer who has played for Scotland, underscoring the family’s rich sporting heritage.

Domestic and International Career:

Chris made his first-class debut against the United Arab Emirates in the 2015–17 ICC Intercontinental Cup on August 9, 2016. Shortly thereafter, he earned his One Day International (ODI) cap on August 16, 2016, facing the same opposition. His Twenty20 International (T20I) debut came on January 19, 2017, against Oman during the Desert T20 Challenge.

Throughout his career, Chris has showcased his talent in various domestic leagues. He has been associated with teams such as Hampshire (2017–2018), Saint Lucia Kings (2023), Sharjah Warriors (2024), Glamorgan (2024), and Biratnagar Kings (2024), gaining valuable experience across different formats and conditions.

Chris Sole’s Contributions in NPL 2024:

1. Bowling Brilliance:
   • Chris Sole was a key wicket-taker for the Biratnagar Kings throughout the tournament.
   • His express pace and ability to generate bounce made him a dangerous bowler in Nepal’s conditions.
   • Sole delivered in crucial moments, breaking partnerships and helping the Kings stay competitive.
2. Batting Contributions:
   • Although primarily known for his bowling, Sole contributed valuable runs in pressure situations.
   • His lower-order batting performances provided stability and helped the Kings post or chase competitive totals.
3. Key Moments in the Tournament:
   • Chris Sole’s ability to step up in high-pressure games was evident as he took important wickets in critical matches.
   • His dual contributions with both bat and ball underlined his all-round value to the team.
4. Impact on the Team’s Performance:
   • Sole’s performances added balance to the Biratnagar Kings, allowing them to compete strongly against tough opponents.
   • Even though the Kings did not win the title, his consistent contributions were widely acknowledged.

Legacy in NPL:

Chris Sole’s participation in the Nepal Premier League highlighted the growing trend of international players making significant contributions in the league. His performances with the Biratnagar Kings not only showcased his individual skill but also helped raise the overall quality of the tournament.

Notable Achievements:

A highlight of Chris’s career was during the World Cup Qualifier in 2023, where he delivered a match-winning opening spell against Zimbabwe. Clocking speeds up to 150 kph, he took 3 wickets for 33 runs, playing a pivotal role in Scotland’s victory.

Playing Style:

Known for his express pace and ability to generate bounce, Chris has been a vital asset for Scotland, especially in limited-overs cricket. His capacity to deliver in high-pressure situations has earned him recognition on the international stage.

Off the Field:

Growing up in a rugby-dominated household, Chris chose to pursue cricket, carving out his own niche in the sporting world. His journey reflects a blend of natural talent and dedication, contributing significantly to Scottish cricket’s progress on the global platform.