As the fancied Anjuman-I-Islam played the final of the 128th Harris Shield, one member of the team stood out for not just his performances this season but also the resilience and fortitude he brought to his game this season.
Shane Raza Ahmed plucked 26 wickets this season and was an important cog in the wheel in Anjuman’s progress to the summit clash despite missing matches in the league stage owing to an injury.
The 14-year-old’s story is a shining example of how the passion for cricket has shaped Shane’s direction in life despite hardships that could have otherwise derailed his pursuit of a cricketing career.
Shane was brought to Anjuman by someone who knew him in Bhiwandi where the house he lived had collapsed.
It was a tough time for the young lad but one that potentially altered the course of his life now that he has been selected for the Mumbai under-14 probables camp.
“I started playing two years back. I used to stay in Bhiwandi and the building we were staying had collapsed and Noor sir there brought me to Anjuman. So he made arrangements to stay for me in Santa Cruz-Vakola,” recollected Shane narrating his initiation into cricket as well.
Talking about the current Harris Shield season, Shane felt he has given a good account of himself.
“I played about five matches. There were good performances from my end. In one game, I picked up six wickets, bagged seven wickets twice. I played the semifinals where I got one wicket in first innings and three in second innings,” he added.
Shane trains at Islam Gymkhana and is coached by Faizan.
” I go for cricket practice from morning 6.30 am to 10.30 am. If that is not there, then I do fitness at Juhu beach.”
The fast bowler considers India bowling star Mohammad Shami as his inspiration.
” I like Shami’s ability to swing. The way he swings with his wrists, great wrist position. I love his outswingers. He is an outswing bowler. My team-mates feel my speed could be in the range of 125kmph and I hope to increase that as well.”
Shane felt a sense of gratitude to Anjuman school management for the support they were giving him considering his cricketing schedule.
The teenager revealed that he got a lot of support from his family as well comprising his parents, two brothers and a sister.
