India is well-known across the world as the nation where the game of cricket is religion. Ever since cricket was introduced to the country years ago by the British, Indians took up the game with a great amount of fervour. Several careers have been made, victories celebrated, and retirements mourned. This story from Vadodara, however, is different.

Imran Sheikh, ten years back had made an important half-century which helped for India’s victory in the cricket World Cup, for the deaf and mute. Three years ago, he became the captain of the deaf and mute Indian cricket team. But now Imran sells kachoris at Old Padra Road in Vadodara to make a living.

How his career was started?

He began playing at the city’s Bhutadi Zampa ground at 15, with teenagers just like himself. His talent would eventually be spotted by cricket coach Nitendra Singh, who mentored Sheikh as he made his way through the ranks. Singh spotted Sheikh’s immense talent and helped him qualify for the Gujarat team.

Sheikh would eventually qualify for the national deaf-and-mute team and at India’s World Cup managed three over-50 scores en route to the semi-finals in 2005, an India vs. Pakistan affair where Sheikh scored 62 runs to take India to victory and the finals.

He started a kachori stall to earn livelihood:

“Cricket is my passion and I want to keep playing. But my financial condition is not good enough to support my family. Playing deaf and mute cricket matches doesn’t earn me much money. So I started a nutritious kachori stall with the help of my wife Roza for earning extra income. I also got a temporary job in Gujarat Refinery, thanks to my coach Nitendra Singh,” Imran told.

According to the report in TOI, Imran is no longer interested in continuing to play cricket. His coach Nitendra Singh stated that it would be “unfortunate” if he decides to hang his boots, considering his talent and hard work.

“We would be glad if the government helps us get a permanent place for our eatery,” was all Imran’s wife could say.

He is not the first player who is facing a situation like this. There are so many Indian players who are unable to get a single meal per day like Gunja Madhu (Blind Cricket World Cup Winner) & Krishna Raut (National Level Boxer Working As Sweeper). We request our Government to help them.