The fast bowler’s meticulous rise highlights perseverance and community support
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — Juned Khan, a fast bowler from the ancient Uttar Pradesh city of Kannauj, has turned his dreams into reality by making his debut for Mumbai in the prestigious Irani Cup. His journey, marked by hardship and determination, took him from being a garment factory worker and an autorickshaw driver to the cricketing spotlight, where he showcased his talent by taking the crucial wicket of prolific batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad cheaply in his very first spell in a match against Rest of India (October 1-5) in Lucknow.
“I couldn’t sleep at all ever since I was told on the match eve that I will be playing my first match for Mumbai, that too in the Irani Cup,” an elated Juned was quoted by Sportstar as saying. “The wicket was a bonus. Just to find myself here is like a dream in itself.”
Juned’s cricketing journey began while he was working as an autorickshaw driver in Mumbai. It was at the Sanjeevani Cricket Academy, founded by former Mumbai wicketkeeper Manish Bangera, where he first bowled with a proper cricket ball, having previously only played with a tennis ball. Bangera recognised his potential and encouraged him to keep bowling, but the path was fraught with challenges.
“I didn’t have money to buy spikes, but many people helped me out and they backed me to keep playing regularly,” he recalled, acknowledging the support he received from the community.
His life took another significant turn when he caught the eye of Abhishek Nayar, who was then an assistant coach for the Kolkata Knight Riders and is currently India’s assistant coach. Juned’s impressive performances for the PJ Hindu Gymkhana in the Police Shield tournament did not go unnoticed. He further showcased his skills in the Buchi Babu and KSCA tournaments, leading to his selection for the Mumbai team in the Irani Cup.
“This is just the beginning of my journey,” Juned said, filled with optimism about his future in cricket. When asked about his cricketing idol, he replied without hesitation, “Mohammed Shami,” recognising the shared journey of leaving Uttar Pradesh to pursue cricket in a different state.
Juned Khan’s inspiring story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of perseverance and community support, illustrating how determination can turn dreams into reality.
