Trailblazer from the Valley
Parvez Rasool went down history books on Friday, becoming the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to represent India at the senior level. The Indian selectors picked the 24-year-old all-rounder in the 15-member squad the five-match ODI series in Zimbabwe.
In the past, many cricketers from the Valley like his childhood coach Abdul Qayoom Bagaw and more recently Abid Nabi — both pacers— came close but none could seal the ultimate India berth. “It came on expected lines,” said Rasool. “I thought the selectors will rest a few regulars including R. Ashwin during the Zimbabwe tour, so I will get a chance and all thanks to Allah.”
In his seven Ranji matches last season, Rasool scored 594 runs with two centuries, and took 33 wickets.
“It is just a beginning and I hope can go a long way. I hope more state cricketers will emulate me,” a confident Rasool said.
The decision to rest frontline off-spinner Ashwin paved the way for Rasool’s selection in the senior team, since he too is an off-spinner.
Incidentally Rasool was better known for his batting until legendary former Indian spinner Bishan Singh Bedi, who coached Jammu & Kashmir in the past season, told him to focus on his bowling as well.
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