The opener for the Indian physical disability team couldn’t be happier.
Wasim Iqbal found himself in a rather unfamiliar situation: he was away from home during the Eid celebration for the first time, and just a few days later, Article 370 was signed which saw Jammu and Kashmir get divided into two Union territories. During this time, he was also playing against Pakistan in the first T20 Physical Disability World Championship. All he could think about was his family back home.
“I was very tense. I still am. I haven’t spoken to my family since last almost 10 days. It was difficult to put everything behind and concentrate on the match, that too against Pakistan, the most awaited one of the tournaments for us. However, I managed to pull it off and win the game for my team,” he said.
Regardless, he performed extremely well during the match, scoring 69 runs off 43 deliveries including four boundaries and six sixes. He helped the team chase down the 150-target in just 17.1 overs. He got the Player of the Match award.
“I got the man-of-the-match award. To do this on Eid was so special, this was such a big day for me. Unfortunately, my family would not even know about it. I am worried for them and I am sure they will be very concerned for me too. I wish I could communicate with them just for a few minutes. They were so excited when I was leaving for this tournament.”
Iqbal is part of the Indian physical disability team participating in the first T20 Physical Disability World Championship. To find out more about the different cricket leagues, visit Betwala’s site.
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