FORMER Accrington cricket star Ashar Zaidi has been told to ‘korma’ down by his new bosses and ditch his daily helping of curry.

The spin-bowler has been put on a strict diet and training regime – which means he can’t enjoy his favourite dishes as often.

The 32-year-old admits he was out of shape when Sussex plucked him from Lancashire League cricket and offered him a route back into the first-class game last September.

And he said missing his daily curry is driving him ‘jalfrezi’, although he is feeling fitter than ever.

He said: “I was eating Asian meals which have a lot of carbs and calories, so I have had to make changes.

“I have to cut down and had to sacrifice having curries for salads.

“I do miss them, but to burn all the calories I would have to go another half an hour in the gym.”

Ashar played for Accrington for three years, and helped them to the Foster’s Lancashire League last season.

He proved popular and also played as a sub professional for Ribblesdale League sides Barnoldwick and Padiham during his time in East Lancashire.

Church signed Zaidi as their professional for 2014 but county side Sussex then offered him a two-year contract, which he accepted.

Ashar said: “Sussex is fantastic. I have always wanted to get back into the first-class set up.

“I’m thankful to Accrington for giving me the chance to play for them and perform.”