Category Archives: Sports

Running for a brighter future

Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , ,

Khammam,TELANGANA :

At the age of 18, this Khammam athlete is running, not only for medals but also to help her family escape poverty.

18-year-old Sk Afreen

Khammam:

At an age when most young adults are just beginning to explore their independence and dreams, 18-year-old Sk Afreen from Khammam is racing ahead — not just to win medals but to support her family. A cheetah on the track, this second-year BA student has set her sights on using her athletic talent to help her family break free from the clutches of poverty.

She primarily competes in the 200- and 400-metre sprints and the triple jump categories. For the 18-year-old, it all began when her father, Raheem, took her to the Sardar Patel Stadium in the city about four years ago. Afreen was mesmerised by the sight of young girls exercising, training and speaking to the coaches. Soon after, she enrolled in an athletics programme under local coach Md Ghouse.

Afreen’s determination and hard work have already led her to notable achievements. She recently secured second place in the Telangana South Zone Athletics Championship, held at the Regional Sports Hostel Stadium in Karimnagar from October 30 to November 1.

She also took second place in the 10th Telangana State Junior Athletics Championships in the 400- and 200-metre races, held at Osmania University in Hyderabad on September 19 and 20. Furthermore, she achieved third place in the Junior National Athletics Championships at Nagarjuna University in Guntur, held from October 17-19. Earlier, she also claimed third place in the Telangana State Youth 400-metre Athletics Championship, held at JN Stadium in Hanamkonda from October 6-7.

Despite her achievements, Afreen’s journey has been far from easy. Her father, Raheem, works as a home guard in the Khammam police department, with his entire family relying on his salary. Supporting Afreen’s athletic needs has placed a financial strain on him. “We’re facing hardships in providing her equipment,” Raheem shared, mentioning that he recently purchased a pair of shoes for Rs 12,000, half his monthly income.

“If someone could help us, it would make a big difference,” he added, hopeful for donors who might support his daughter’s aspirations.

Khammam police chief Sunil Dutt felicitates SK Afreen after her recent performances across southern India

Coach Ghouse praised Afreen’s potential, stating, “She is talented and competes with dedication. She has a bright future if she continues like this.”

‘I want to represent India’

Speaking to TNIE, Afreen shares, “Athletics is more than a passion; it’s my lifeline.”

The starting blocks and finish lines represent steps toward a future where her family no longer struggles, she elaborates.

Afreen credits her success to her coach and her family’s support. “My goal is to represent India, secure a government job and support my family,” she says.

In recognition of her achievements, Khammam Commissioner of Police (CP) Sunil Dutt recently felicitated her at his office, commending her resilience and determination.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Good News / by B Satyanarayana Reddy / November 03rd, 2024

Eid Meelad cricket tournament held

Karnataka (under research project), Sports, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mysuru, KARNATAKA :

Mysuru :

Eid Meelad-un-Nabi Cricket Tournament – 2024, organised by Mysore Meelad Cricket Association as part of Eid Meelad festival was held at Maharaja’s College Cricket Grounds in city recently.

A total of 24 teams participated in the tournament in which Titan Cricket team won the tournament while Moonstar Cricket team secured the runners up place.

Batting first, Titan Cricket team scored 198 runs for the loss of seven wickets in 20 overs. Chasing the target, Moonstar team could score 183 runs and lost all their wickets.

Rohan Naveen, who scored 115 runs and bagged three wickets, was declared ‘Man of the Match’ while ‘Best Batsman and Man of the Series’ was awarded to Imran and ‘Best Bowler’ was awarded to Kifayat.

Mysore Meelad Cricket Association office-bearers Akram, Zameer Ahmed, Suhail Baig, Mubarak, Abrar Ahmed, Javeed Pasha, Kouar Pasha, Rahman, Azhar, Sagir, Mahboob, Nopor Ahmed, Haseeb, Saif, Siddiq, Afroz and others were present.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysoe / Home>Sports / September 27th, 2024

Grand cricket tournament AUZ to kick off in Dubai from October 26; Player auction scheduled for October 6

Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), NRI's / PIO's, Sports, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bhatkal, KARNATAKA / Dubai, U.A.E :

Dubai: 

In an effort to unite Bhatkallis residing in Dubai and other parts of the United Arab Emirates, the “AUZ Blast Edition 2” cricket tournament is set to commence in Dubai on October 26, 2024. The tournament is being organized by the Dubai-based Bhatkal companies, AUZ real estate and Nuha General Trading.

Providing details to the media, Ismail Mohtisham, the media coordinator of the organizing committee, explained that the purpose of the tournament is to bring together young cricket enthusiasts and players who are working in different parts of Dubai and the UAE, and to provide them with a platform to showcase their talent and take their skills to new heights.

The spectacular cricket event will not only serve as a source of entertainment for the cricket fans of Coastal Karnataka living in the UAE but will also offer young players from Bhatkal and surrounding areas an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities on a prominent stage.

The auction for the players will be held on October 6, with the first match scheduled for October 26.

Mohtisham further shared that eight teams will participate in the tournament, with a total of 220 players registering their interest. Each team will consist of 16 players, including three guest players.

The winning team will be awarded a trophy along with a cash prize of AED 10,999, while the runner-up team will receive a trophy and AED 6,999. Individual performances will also be recognized, with a Man of the Match award for each game and the prestigious Man of the Tournament award for the best overall performance.

“The tournament format will feature eight teams divided into two groups, with each team playing three league matches,” Mohtisham added. “The top four teams will qualify for the playoffs, promising plenty of excitement and competition.”

In addition to the thrilling cricket matches, fans can look forward to an exciting atmosphere with snacks and gift hampers on offer, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone attending the AUZ Blast Edition 2.

All matches will be held at Al Batayah Stadium in Sharjah.

It is important to note that Sundays are official holidays in Dubai and the UAE, while most companies have half-day holidays on Saturdays.

According to the schedule, the tournament will kick off on the evening of Saturday, October 26, with the opening ceremony, followed by the first match at 9:30 PM. On Sunday, October 27, the first match will be played at 10:00 AM, the second at 2:00 PM, and the third at 5:30 PM. For the next two weeks, on November 3 and November 10, four matches will be held on Sundays. On Saturday, November 16, two matches will take place, and on Sunday, November 17, the second semi-final and the final match will be played.

source: http://www.sahilonline.com / Sahil Online / Home> Gulf News / by IG Bhatkal / S O News Service / October 04th, 2024

Hijabi Trekker Haaequa Awati began by exploring forts built by Shivaji Maharaj

Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Junnar (Pune), MAHARASHTRA :

Haaequa Awati alias Hijabi trekker climbing Kalsubhi peak, the highest one in Maharashtra

Haaequa Awati of Junnar in Pune, Maharashtra, known as Hijabi Trekker for her passion for trekking in a hijab, is on an exploration of all the forts built by the Maratha Warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It’s interesting to note that both were born in Junnar, a historic city of Maharashtra.

Haaequa Awati’s bio on her Instagram account @hijabitrekker includes a quote, “Nature’s path is where the mind finds clarity, the body finds strength, and the heart finds freedom” Haika emerging as ‘Hijabi Trekker’ is creating a different identity through trekking.

Haaequa has been fascinated by forts since childhood. She feels drawn to the stories of Maharaj Chhatrapati Shivaji’s bravery. She developed an interest in outdoor sports right in school. Inspired by Shivaji’s stories, she picked up adventure sports. 

Haaequa’s wanderlust started because of her passion for sports. She had been practicing taekwondo from the age of nine years. She is the first Muslim woman from Junnar taluk to earn a black belt.

“Being born in Shiv Janmabhoomi, I have had an adventurous spirit since childhood. I don’t have a brother, so I felt responsible for the protection of my sisters… In that sense, I learned taekwondo for self-defense out of my love for sports… From that love, I developed the hobby of trekking.” 

Haaequa Awati practising martial arts

Haaequa spent her childhood in a village. Her father has a small tailoring business and her mother is a school teacher. Haaequa is the eldest of three sisters.

Haaequa came to Pune to pursue higher education. Sports and trekking are popular in her community, but higher education among women is not common. She completed her education while maintaining her passion for sports.  

Haaequa got inspired to play sports, she says, “Being born in Shiv Janmabhoomi, I have had an adventurous spirit since childhood. As I didn’t have a brother, I felt responsible for protecting myself and my sisters… In that sense, I learned taekwondo for self-defense out of my love for sports… From that love, I developed the hobby of trekking.”  

She came to Pune and completed her MBA from a reputed college and soon got a job. Soon she started coaching schoolchildren in sports and would use her weekends for trekking.

Haaequa Awati posing for a picture during one of her treks

She started trekking from the Shivjanmasthan Fort Shivneri, a fort build by Shivaji Maharaj. So far, she has collected that information by wandering in many places like Torna, Harishchandragad, Korigad, Kokandiva, Rajmachi, Bhuikot, Sea forts, and Mountain forts. Her travel vlogs have also become popular on YouTube and Instagram.   

She says, “My mother, being a teacher, is always innovative. She knows a lot about social media and technology. So she gave me the idea to start the channel. After that, I started my channel on social media called ‘Hizbi Trekker’.” 

Along with showing the beauty of Sahyadri through her social media, Haaequa tries to convey the culture of Maharashtra and the history preserved through the forts. She chooses a high-altitude fort or a mountain and climbs it wearing casual clothes that blend in with the forest. Haaequa decided to trek wearing a hijab. The idea behind it was to break the stereotype of a Hijab-wearing Muslim woman.

Haaequa has shown how modernity can be embraced while still maintaining religiosity and modest dressing. On being asked about her Hijab while trekking Haaequa said, “When I performed Umrah and Hajj in 2019, I gained more respect for the hijab. That’s when I realized that religion or culture never comes in the way of your ambition. We can fulfill our dreams even by wearing hijab. Because hijab is not compulsory but a matter of choice.”

Haaequa adds, “Many people think that being religious means you can’t live life as per your choice. I wanted to break this misconception. So I decided to wear my religious identity on my sleeves while pursuing my passion for trekking. That is how the concept of ‘Hijabi Trekker’ was born.” 

On her logo on her social media pages, she says, “There is a lot of respect for our tricolor. It is also a place of inspiration. Inspired by the three colors of the tricolor, I created my Hizbi Trekker logo.”

Haaequa Awati in front of a monument up in the hills

Speaking about her journey from a passion for sports to trekking, Hayka says, “I’m trying to prove myself through this. I want to show that Muslim women are also leading the way in sports. Today, my social media followers refer to me as Hizbi Trekker. Hijabi Haaequa has become my identity.”

When asked about the difficulties she faced in her early days of trekking as a woman, she says, “While trekking, you have to wear loose but skimpy clothes. But I feel comfortable in full body coverings. So that one thing bothered me, but luckily some companies in Kerala have marketed full-body clothing used during trekking. It solved the problems of many girls like me.”

She further says, “I have met a lot of girls who want to do trekking. However, when it comes to trekking by women, many people wonder about where they would stay. Sometimes, the trekkers may also carry their children. I mostly get such reactions, especially from Muslim families. While searching for answers to such questions, I thought that we should curate trekking groups for women.”

Haaequa  feels education is an important component of development and empowerment. Unfortunately, the level of education of Muslims in India especially in higher education is not very satisfactory. Although this society has been somewhat backward due to the lack of education, today it seems to be undergoing many positive changes. 

Women face many problems due to lack of education. Therefore, Haaequa has expressed her strong opinion on the importance of education. “I got married in 2017,” Haaequa adds, adding that women should be educated and empowered. Opinion I had to separate from my husband within a year of marriage. After that, I had to face the questions of relatives and society. The couple also started a huge court battle for divorce and that battle is still going on. I realized that this battle could not be fought effectively without knowing the law.”

She adds, “There are many laws for women in our country. But I did not know how to use those laws. So I decided to study law to fight my own battle effectively.” 

Haaequa is completing her LLB from a reputed college in Pune. After becoming financially strong, she wants to cobble a trekking group of women and start a fitness training center for the elderly women. 

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Bhakti Chalaka, Pune / October 24th, 2024

Tennis star Nazneen Rahman Zaffar proves age is just a number

Amazing Feats, Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Guwahati, ASSAM :

Nanzeen Rahman Zaffar at the World tennis Masters’ Tour in Portugal

A woman in her 40s; a homemaker, a doting mother, and an ideal daughter-in-law – Nazneen Rahman Zaffar of Guwahati is all this yet has a distinct identity. She is an international tennis player.

Nazneen proves that age is no bar to success She is a mother of two children manages her family well and is yet able to find the time and energy to excel in sports.

“I played sports in school but never got into sports professionally. In college, I was focused on studying. I started playing late in life after I got married.’  After 10 years of playing tennis, she took a break to care for her children and family.

“I started playing tennis in 2011 and the next year, I participated in the state-level tournaments. Tasting success, I was even more interested in playing, and later on, I trained well and played at the national level,” Zaffar told Awaz-The Voice.

Nazneen Zaffar playing tennis

Later Nazneen Zaffar finished among the top 10 at the ITF Masters.

She says her daughter encouraged and inspired her to play tennis. Her daughter is currently pursuing her higher studies at the A&M University in Texas.

“When I took my daughter Raina Zaffar to the stadium for tennis training, I too wanted to play. Some of my friends always told me that I played good tennis and I should continue. They told me that they wanted to see me at the international level in Indian colours. I thought; why not give it a try? I participated in the international games held by the All India Tennis Association in Haryana where I won my first trophy in the doubles event.”

Nazneer Zaffar with her trophis and receiving a trophy

Nazneen Zaffar won the All Assam CTC Mixed Doubles titles in 2023 and 2024, finished runner-up in World Masters Tournament 200 in Dubai in 2023, won titles in Masters Tournament 200 in Guwahati and in Darjeeling in 2023 and a Masters Tournament 100 in Gurugram in 2023.

She also won the doubles title in a Masters 400 in Thailand.

“I gradually started participating in more tournaments and my ranking improved. Then when India sent a women’s team for the World Championships, I was appointed its Captain.”

She took the first women’s tennis team to Portugal. “Most importantly, every player in our team was a mother. It’s nice to think that we have made a distinct identity after having children.”

Nazneen Zaffar with her husband Shahnawaz Zaffar.

Nazneen has broken the myth that it is difficult for women to maintain physical fitness after becoming mothers. Nazneen is an athlete and an active fitness influencer on social media as well.

“I think sports and physical education are always complementary. When I had to take my daughter to different places for sports, I had to take care of her body and fitness. Since it becomes too expensive to take a fitness coach with us every time, I studied how we can keep ourselves fit; and how a tennis player can take care of her fitness.”

“It becomes quite difficult for women of my age to keep fit after bearing children. Many women give up self-care. However, I believe that every woman should take care of herself, not just because she has to play sports, but for her physical and mental health. They must walk and do yoga. Muscle formation slows down in a woman after the age of 30. On the other hand, when the time of menopause comes at the age of 40, many hormonal imbalances occur.

Raina Zaffar in the tennis court (Left) Nazneen and his family in Tennis court

“We have to keep ourselves fit to deal with all these problems. There are so many women who after a certain age would say we can’t do this… we can’t do that. But I think there is no age to stop learning. Even a woman in her 80s and 90s can learn or do many things if she has the confidence and desire. When I started playing, there were very few women in Assam, but now many women have come out,” Nazneen said.

“I have been imparting free yoga training at the Khanapara ground. I believe apart from physical fitness, we must also focus on mental health. When we are mentally fit, we live happily and can also keep others happy; and deal with all the problems. When members of a family see this change in the woman, they too want to change,” the fitness influencer emphasized.

In many cases, a woman, especially a Muslim woman, finds going out a hassle. As a Muslim woman, Nazneen Zaffar has never encountered someone questioning or blocking her; rather she receives support from her family.

Nazneen Zaffar with the Indian team

“I get a lot of support from my family. My father supported me when I was young and later it was my husband Shahnawaz Zaffar. He is an NIS-accredited tennis coach. He guides me on many aspects of the game. Many women, especially Muslims, are reluctant to go out. I am very fortunate that my family supports me financially and mentally.”

Nazneen also links sports with religion and spiritualism. “I pray and fast regularly except sometimes when I am playing for competitions. When I have to go out for sports, I stay in a single room so that I can carry on with my religious activities smoothly. Religion helps us keep our bodies healthy. We fast for a month which is a very positive practice and this rule of fasting has many scientific implications for an athlete,” she said.

Since a player faces various situations during sports how can the player maintain mental stability to cope with good and bad situations are some difficult aspects of sports. Nazneen Zaffar, an athlete and fitness influencer, has done a course in sports psychology. Through this, she has been advising many players on how to keep their mental state stable.

“I did a course in sports psychology. Tennis is a very difficult game. There are many good and bad experiences. Since my daughter and son play along with me, I’ve done this course,” she said.

Nazneen with Bollywood actor Gul Panag

“I have been able to help my children stay mentally stable. I also advise many other players to stay strong. The course teaches how to deal with situations after losing a game or how to be determined. For instance, I have to decide the moment I enter the court that I have to win this game anyway, no matter who the competitor is. It helps me to keep up with the expectations of the audience,” she explained.

Of late Nazneen has been promoting a relatively new sport in Assam – pickleball.

“Pickleball is a fast-spreading sport in Assam. It is spreading rapidly in the US as well as in Asian countries. It is spreading in India as well. This game is simple and convenient. It has no hard and fast rules. It is a mixture of tennis, table tennis, badminton, etc, and can be played by people of all ages. It is a game where a polymer ball is played with a small paddle made of fiber, micro-fiber, and wood.  We have brought this game to Assam. We recently demonstrated pickleball in several schools and IAS Colony and got a very good response.”

Pickleball has been launched in 23 states of India. In NCR, Delhi NCR, and Western India, new coaches are coming up and about 10,000 players have registered. An institute named Pickleball World Ranking was launched recently in Dubai.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Munni Begum, Guwahati / August 06th, 2024

Meet Hyderabad’s teenage female fencers: Sheikh Fouzia and Sheikh Naziya

Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , ,

Nalgonda ,TELANGALA :

Hyderabad: 

Sheikh Fouzia and Sheikh Naziya are two city teenagers who are working hard toward the sports of fencing, a summer Olympics game, to fulfil their dream of one day representing India at the International level.

Fencing is a combat game, also the first sport to be played in Olympics. Based on the traditional skills of swordsmanship, the modern sport arose at the end of the 19th century. Competitive fencing is one of the five activities which have been featured in every modern Olympic Games, the other four being athletics, cycling, swimming, and gymnastics.

Fouzia and Naziya are daughters of an RTC bus driver who has worked hard to make his daughters achieve their dreams. Natives of Nalagonda, the family of five (the girls have a younger brother who is also an active fencing player), have dedicated their lives to playing world-class fencing.

Nineteen-year-old Fouzia and 17-year-old Naziya have been training for the last eight and six years respectively. After getting selected at the district level, they got admission to the prestigious Telangana state Sports School in Hakkimpet, known for its sports coaching.

When Siasat.com asked about their choice, both the girls admitted that they were attracted to the way in which the game was played. The uniform, the sword shifting, the techniques of the game, studying the opponent; all this really got them interested.

When your whole day goes into sports coaching, one can lose track of studies. But for the girls, nothing has changed. In fact, both of them were toppers in their respective tenth class batch, thus balancing the study-sports pendulum.

Our father is a strong man:

Giving full credit to their father, the girls regard him as their biggest inspiration. “Our father wanted to join the Indian defence forces but due to family pressure, he could not. But he is a strong man. He taught us everything to ensure we get admission to the sports school,” said Fouzia.

She goes on to add, “My father faces much criticism from family and our village. Being girls everybody keeps questioning him why are they in such a sport, why is their hair so short, why can’t put them in regular school and then marry them off, all that. But he does not care about anyone’s opinion and does what he thinks is best for us.”

About Fencing:

The traditional game is divided into three parts depending on the speed – Epee, Foil, Sabre.

Epee – The epee is considered the original dueling sword. The whole body is considered a target.

Foil – The foil evolved from the short court sword of the 17th and 18th centuries. The front and back of the torsos are considered targets.

Sabre- In sabre, the target includes heads, arms and a button. It is the fastest out of the three weapons.

While Fouzia is a foil player, Naziya is an epee player and has competed at the international level.

When asked about her experience in playing international, Naziya said, “It was very difficult. I was scared. There were many big players. I have played Asian Championship at Tashkent where my team fetched a silver medal. I have also participated in World Championship in Dubai where I got 76th rank. I realised I had to work really hard if I need to get a seat at the international level.”

The Biggest Sacrifice:

“Family has been our biggest sacrifice to achieve our dreams,” echoed the girls. “Many a time we want to share our wins and loses with our parents but since they live in the village we cant afford to bring them here. We stay in a hostel. We miss them immensely,” the girls said.

While Fouzia wants to get into the Indian Army or the Air force and represent fencing through them the defence force, Nazyia’s only dream is to fetch an Olympic medal. The hope is that their dreams come true and that fencing, which is relatively unknown in the country, soon becomes a beloved sport.

source: http://www.alhaqeeqa.org / Al Haqeeqa / Home> Education> News> Personalities> Sports / by admin , (headline edited) / May 25th, 2022

Bhagalpur Boy Saad Hussaini Shines at State-Level Rifle Shooting Event

Amazing Feats, Sports, , , , ,

Bhagalpur, BIHAR :

Silver medal for the shooter has brought pride not only to his family but also to his city and the community.

Bhagalpur :

Syed Saad Hussaini, a promising young shooter from Bhagalpur in Bihar, has won the silver medal at the state-level Junior Rifle Shooting Championship. The victory has brought pride not only to his family but also to his city and the community.

Saad Hussaini, son of Syed Shah Fakhre Alam Hasan, a senior official of Pir Dumaria Shah’s monastery, competed against a large pool of state-level shooters at the five-day championship held by the Bihar State Rifle Association in Siwan district.

The recent competition saw participation from numerous shooters across Bihar. Saad’s exceptional performance in the 50m rifle shooting category earned him the silver medal, marking a historic achievement for Bhagalpur. This is the first time a shooter from Bhagalpur has secured such a high rank in a junior shooting event at the state level.

In a ceremony hosted by the Monger Rifle Association Shooting Club, Saad was felicitated by Monger SSP Imran Masood for his outstanding performance. The recognition is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.

Saad Hussaini expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am thrilled to have achieved this milestone. It is the result of relentless effort and dedication. I extend my thanks to everyone who supported me throughout this journey.” He further mentioned his aspirations to compete at the national and international levels, with plans to prepare for the Olympics in the future.

Currently focused on memorisation of the Noble Qur’an, Saad plans to chart his path forward in shooting while continuing his religious studies. His achievement has sparked a sense of pride and inspiration within the community, highlighting the potential and talent emerging from Bhagalpur.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editors’s Pick> Indian Muslim> by Team Clarion / August 07th, 2024

Aaqib Khan, Rising Cricket Star from UP, Selected for India ‘A’ Team

Sports,

Sahranpur, UTTAR PRADESH :

The selection of the young lad from Saharanpur to the national cricket team comes at a time when India is looking to rebuild and experiment with new talent

New Delhi :

Aaqib Khan, a rising cricketer from the domestic circuit, has earned his maiden call-up to the Indian national cricket team. He has been selected for India ‘A’ team for the forthcoming ACC Men’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup, scheduled in Oman from October 18 to 27.

The selection marks a significant moment in Khan’s career, signalling his emergence as one of the most promising cricketers in the country. Hailing from Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh, he received recognition for his outstanding performance in the recent Duleep Trophy, during which he claimed eight wickets across two matches.

Aaqib Khan has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket, particularly excelling in first-class and T20 formats. His journey began with the domestic leagues, where he showcased exceptional skills as both a bowler and a batsman. Known for his sharp bowling variations, Khan has been particularly effective in the T20 format, with his ability to adapt to different match situations.

His breakthrough came during the Ranji Trophy, where he played a pivotal role for his team by taking key wickets and maintaining a strong economy rate. His performances did not go unnoticed, and soon he became a sought-after player in the domestic T20 leagues, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he was picked by a top franchise. His impressive stint in the IPL, where he played alongside international stars, further solidified his reputation as a bright prospect for the national team.

Khan is primarily known for his fast bowling, with the ability to consistently bowl at speeds exceeding 140 km/h. His control and accuracy in delivering yorkers and slower balls make him a lethal bowler in the shorter formats of the game. In addition, he has demonstrated the ability to swing the ball both ways, making him a potent threat in all conditions. His ability to maintain composure under pressure has been a key factor in his rise to prominence.

As a lower-order batsman, Khan has shown resilience and the ability to contribute valuable runs in crunch situations, making him a versatile all-rounder option for the team. His fitness levels and work ethic have also been highly praised by coaches and teammates alike.

On his selection for the India ‘A’ team, Aaqib Khan, while speaking to the Times of India, said, “I learned about my selection through social media when the squad was announced today. I am extremely pleased to see my name included. I extend my gratitude to the BCCI and the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association for acknowledging my efforts and providing me with this opportunity.”

The selectors see Khan as a potential game-changer, especially in the T20 and One-Day International (ODI) formats. His inclusion is part of India’s strategy to inject fresh talent into the squad and build a strong, competitive unit for upcoming international tournaments.

Aaqib Khan’s selection is a testament to his hard work, talent, and dedication. As he prepares to don the Indian jersey, cricket fans across the country will be eagerly watching his progress, hoping he can contribute to India’s success on the world stage.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editors’s Pick> Indian Muslim> Sports / by Team Clarion / October 16th, 2024

Ishrat Akhter : First international wheelchair basketball player from Kashmir

Amazing Feats, Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021)

JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Meet 25-year-old specially-abled girl, who plays basketball, does motivational speaking and drives a car.

Ishrat Akhter in Team India jersey | eNewsroom India

Delhi:

Ishrat Akther from Baramulla in Jammu and Kashmir is a multi-faceted personality. She is an international wheelchair basketball player, a motivational speaker, Kashmir’s young leader and an achiever’s award-winner. Indeed, six years back, Ishrat’s life had no meaning — but an incident changed it all.

Now, Ishrat has become an inspiration for all those individuals who set limitations for themselves. Who refuse to dream and achieve their ambitions.

The girl next door

Ishrat was born in a village where women did not participate in sports. Like any other girl, she believed whatever her family taught her and did not dare to dream big. However, her life changed on August 24, 2016, when she fell from the balcony of her house. The injury was serious, it damaged her spinal cord – making her physically challenged.

Life changed for the good when the 25-year-old girl from the Authoora area in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district started her basketball career in 2018. For her, playing basketball was not just a love for the sport but a passion for standing against all odds, come what may.

“I never played any sport before 2016, not even in school, but in 2016 when I was just 18 years old, I met with an accident. I fell off from the balcony of my house and this made me bedridden for two long years,” recalls Ishrat.

Did not surrender to fate

A brave and resilient girl, she developed the will power to transform adversity into hope. Certainly, she did not wish to live a life of hopelessness and despair.

“After that accident, I was a patient at the Voluntary Medicare Society. I saw some boys coming to play basketball on the court which was in the society and all of them were in wheelchairs! Seeing them play, I was deeply influenced. I was inspired. I thought, “I don’t want to sit idle. Let people form their own, biased opinions,” she says and continues:

I, therefore, decided to play basketball. I remember that when the selection process for the Indian team started, police and army people came to my home and informed me that my name was in the list and if I wanted to attend the three-day selection process for the Indian team, I must leave for Chennai within a day. For me, this was a golden opportunity, so I left for Chennai all alone, and participated in the selection process. Luckily, and to my great joy, I got selected. Since then, I have been determined to live a life based on self-conviction, will power and courage.

At the Medicare Society, I joined the Wheelchair Basketball Team and got selected for the ‘nationals’ in Tamil Nadu, representing Delhi. Jammu and Kashmir did not have a team at that time. I was part of a team of good players. Eventually, a team for the state was conceived. I played the second national game at Mohali, representing J&K.

Ishrat Akhter receiving an award by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha | eNewsroom India

Conquering world

“I was selected to represent India at the Asia Oceania Wheelchair Basketball Championship at Pattaya, Thailand in 2019. I am the only girl from my state who has represented India at the international level. Besides, I have participated in a Boys’ Wheelchair Race, I being the only girl in the race. Happily, I secured the first position. I also play Wheelchair Table Tennis,” says Ishrat, with great pride.

Among others, Colonel Isenhower has been a constant support for Ishrat. He has been her guide, mentor and guru. And she is full of praise for him.

“When the selection process for the Indian team was going on, communication services were suspended in Kashmir. Hence, Colonel Isenhower, who was in Kochi, traced me out in two days and arranged everything. Since then, he has been an inspiration for me. He has always been motivating me to do much, much more. He always says that I have to make my name and thus refuse to be restrained — because I am a wheelchair-bound person,” says Ishrat.

Ishrat’s family has always acted with amazing positivity and magnanimity, giving her optimism and courage. She feels that, undoubtedly, it is due to the support of her family that she has reached the international forum, something impossible to conceive for a girl with the kind of difficulties she had faced in her life.

On the flip side, she believes that her life has completely changed because of the accident which resulted in her opting for basketball.

Indeed, after four years of the accident, Ishrat has resumed her academic life, and is currently pursuing a diploma in the Women’s Polytechnic College, Srinagar.

Truly, she represents the eternal metaphor of hope. For her, sky is the limit.

“Not just an international recognition but after 4 years of my accident, I resumed my studies. I passed my Class 10 and also appeared for my Class 12 exams. Now, I’m also pursuing my Diploma,” she says.

Controls her life

The specially-abled Ishrat, braving all odds drives a car, all by herself without anyone’s support.

“In the beginning, it was very difficult, but I wanted to drive by myself. If one has courage and willpower – one can achieve anything in life,” she adds.

“I remember, I used to feel scared even if I had to go some miles away from my home but today I travel alone, even when I have to go to some places outside Kashmir. There are instances when I observe people looking at me and seeing how I manage things but at the same time I’m proud of the fact that today, I get invited to speak as a motivational speaker across India,” she points out.

In 2019, she was also selected for a Sports Visitors Program- Wheelchair Basketball and Accessibility in the USA but because of personal issues she was not able to attend it.

Ishrat is also a motivational speaker and has delivered many talks in Kashmir and other states. She was presented the Kashmir Young leadership award and Kashmir Young Achievers Award 2021 by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha.

She has also received the Women Steel award 2022 from JKPCC.

source: http://www.enewsroom.in / eNews Room India / Home> Play On> She / by Varalika Mishra / May 08th, 2022

Mechanic Tasawwur’s son Shahrukh is a dribbling star

Sports, , , , , , ,

Lucknow, UTTAR PRADESH :

Shahrukh Ali with his father Tasawwur Ali

As one sees the young Shahrukh Ali training hard to be a professional hockey player at the KD Singh Babu Hockey Society, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, his father Tasawwur Ali is parked at the Shahnajaf Gate of the city with an iron box.

Tasawwur repairs two-wheelers  – moped and scooter – to support his family, including Shahrukh. Braving all the financial constraints and with his meager and erratic income, he has never allowed his son’s hockey training to get affected.

As a result, 12-year-old Shahrukh Ali scored a hat-trick in the final of the National Sub Junior Hockey Championship that took the Uttar Pradesh team to become the winner of the championship for the first time. Shahrukh scored five goals in the final competition.

Rashid Aziz, a former hockey coach in KD Singh Babu Stadium, told Awaz-the voice, the story of Shahrukh Khan.

It was about seven years ago that Shahrukh came to Chandrabhanu Gupta Ground with his father and brother Amir Ali. “He must have been five years old, but his passion for playing hockey soon made him a big player. He made a place for himself in sports. At the age of nine, he played in the Sub Junior KD Singh Babu Hockey tournament in Lucknow and made people including big hockey stars turn into his admirers.”

Within some time, Shahrukh became a permanent member of the UP Sub Junior Team. He became a star player with his performance in the National Sub Junior Hockey Championship. Sports Authority of India coaoch said that Shahrukh’s biggest strength is the game inside D. “If Shahrukh somehow manages to get the ball in the opponent’s D (area), then the chances of the team scoring a goal increase manifold.

Tassawur says first it was Aamir and now Shahrukh: I had never thought that my sons would play hockey.

Tasavvur recalls the day he had taken Sghahrusk to the Chandrabhanu Gupta ground on an amateurish basis. “ I feel proud to see his performance today; it’s a great feeling to realize that it’s my little Shahrukh playing.” He told this reporter on the phone. 

Tassawur sounds happy and proud. “I pray that one day he plays for the country and wins medals in the Olympics,” he said with an emotion-choked voice.

Hockey Olympian and Secretary of Babu Society, Syed Ali says that Shahrukh Ali has achieved a big position today. While training at Chandrabhanu Gupt ground, Shahrukh established himself as an accomplished hockey player. Hopefully, his career will go a long way.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by M Mishra, Lucknow / May 24th, 2022