Mumbai’s rising tempo star, Mohammad Juned Khan, had a memorable debut with Ranji Trophy winners Mumbai throughout the Irani Cup 2024. His path to representing the Mumbai cricket crew is a exceptional story of perseverance and dedication. As soon as an autorickshaw driver navigating the full of life streets of Mumbai to help himself, Juned’s love for cricket and unwavering dedication have propelled him to this vital achievement, showcasing his dedication to the game.
Early Lifetime of Juned Khan:
Born in Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh, Mohammad Juned Khan’s exceptional journey started simply 120 km from the place he made his debut. On the age of 14, he left his hometown to not chase cricket desires, however to supply for his household. Initially, he discovered work in a denims manufacturing facility and later drove an autorickshaw from 2015 to 2018, which saved him occupied however far faraway from the cricket area.
In 2014, Juned moved to Mumbai, coming from a farming background. After working as a helper in a denims manufacturing facility, he started driving an autorickshaw, utilizing it as a way to help his household whereas nonetheless hoping for a greater future. It wasn’t till 2019 that an opportunity encounter with the Sanjeevani Cricket Academy in Bandra East modified his life.
Underneath the steerage of former Mumbai wicketkeeper Manish Bangera, Juned took his first steps into formal cricket. Though he had principally performed with a tennis ball, he embraced the challenges of bowling with a cricket ball and obtained encouragement to pursue his ardour additional.
Whereas recalling these preliminary battle days, he mentioned, “ I did not have cash to purchase spikes however many individuals helped me out they usually backed me to maintain enjoying recurrently.”
He added, “ I obtained my licence of auto driving however didn’t have my card of the Mumbai Cricket Affiliation, and even earlier than I might apply for a similar, the Covid struck the nation and the whole lot got here to a standstill for nearly two years. However I by no means misplaced my focus and saved working arduous on my health.”
Juned Khan’s Life-Altering Second:
Juned Khan is one other proficient cricketer from Uttar Pradesh who opted to characterize Mumbai as a substitute of his dwelling state, hailing from Kannauj, positioned about 127 km from Lucknow. His journey took a big flip when he caught the attention of Abhishek Nayar, the assistant coach of the Indian crew and former assistant coach of Kolkata Knight Riders, throughout a match for the PJ Hindu Gymkhana within the Police Protect match.
He mentioned, “It was my option to play for Mumbai. In reality, I by no means tried to play cricket for anybody till 2019 after I met Abhishek Nayar Sir at his academy in Mumbai.”
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He added, “After seeing my ardour for cricket, Abhishek Sir informed me to cease driving auto and keep focussed on cricket. It modified my life as I at all times wished to be a quick bowler. He additionally assured me of all attainable assist. I didn’t have a bowling spike for an extended interval I saved bowling, sporting rubber studs.”
His journey got here full circle when he was recruited as a internet bowler by the Kolkata Knight Riders beneath Abhishek Nayar’s mentorship. He continued to excel in native membership cricket, collaborating in occasions organized by the Karnataka Cricket Affiliation and the Bucchi Babu Event. His spectacular performances in these tournaments finally led to his choice for his debut with Mumbai within the Irani Cup.
Juned Khan’s Dream Debut For Mumbai:
For Juned, receiving his crew cap from skipper Ajinkya Rahane earlier than the Irani Cup match towards the Remainder of India was a surreal second. He expressed, “ I couldn’t sleep for 2 days after studying about my Mumbai debut right here.”
A mixture of nerves and pleasure flooded his thoughts as he ready to make his debut on the crimson soil pitch of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, the place Mumbai had set a formidable first-innings whole of 537.
When the Remainder of India started their innings, Juned rapidly discovered his rhythm. He struck early by dismissing opener and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad for simply 9 runs, forcing him onto the again foot. Prithvi Shaw skillfully accomplished the catch at fourth slip, marking a memorable begin to Juned’s debut. He mentioned, “ That was a tremendous begin for me and for a minute I couldn’t imagine in myself.”
Mohammad Juned Khan, the younger Mumbai pacer, feels impressed after taking his first profession wicket in his debut match. This achievement has fueled his dedication to ascertain himself within the upcoming Ranji Trophy, as he goals to go away an enduring impression on the match together with his performances.
Who’s Juned Khan’s inspiration?
Juned believes that is merely the beginning of his cricketing journey. When requested about his idol, he instantly talked about, “Mohammed Shami.” Aspiring to emulate Shami’s fashion as a quick bowler, Juned discovered the chance to look at Crew India’s Mukesh Kumar throughout the match to be extremely invaluable, offering him with essential insights to reinforce his personal sport.
He mentioned, “ You at all times study out of your seniors, and it was fairly thrilling to see Mukesh bhai bowling right here. I’m bowling someplace round 130 kmph however want to improve it to 140-145 kmph on the upcoming Ranji Trophy matches.”
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