When 19-year-old Mohammad Wasim came into the ongoing trials for the East Delhi Premier League, which is set to begin on November 30, he was one of the many eager contenders waiting for a chance to showcase their talent. But he surprised the selectors when he bowled at 140 kmph wearing a pair of slippers.
Wasim, an aspiring cricketer from East Delhi, divides his time between working as a paperboy and practice sessions.
“I lost my parents at a young age, so I did some odd jobs to help my family. My brother also works, but still our financial condition is not good. Getting selected for the tournament will give a boost to my cricketing career. The officials have helped me with cricket kit and shoes for my practice,” said Wasim, who is inspired by Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah.
Run by East Delhi MP Gautam Gambhir, the Premier League to be held at Yamuna Sports Complex will have 10 teams named after 10 constituencies. The winning team will get ₹30 lakh while the runner-up will get ₹20 lakh.
Residents of East Delhi – in the age group of 17-36 – can take part in the ongoing trials, which have former Ranji Trophy players as selectors.
Among the other raw talents is 17-year-old Shubham, who aspires to be an all-rounder. Unable to attend school due to lack of financial resources, Shubham enlists the help of his father who runs a laundry shop.
“After helping my father for about four hours, I spend the rest of the time on practice. If I am selected for the league, I will be able to take my career forward in terms of exposure, playing time and financial support. I really hope to emulate players like Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja someday.
Mr Gambhir, who unveiled the trophy and kit for the league on Thursday, said the aim is to give opportunities to those who are not able to showcase their talent due to lack of facilities and resources.
“I had promised to bring modern sports infrastructure to East Delhi during my campaign and I am proud that we have been able to fulfill it. Every player who registers for the tournament is being trialled. Your background or It doesn’t matter what gear you have, what really matters is your talent. This is the league of the masses,” said the MP.
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