World Cup winning deaf and mute India captain sells kachoris to make a living

Imran Sheikh played a key role in India’s Deaf and Mute Cricket World Cup win in 2005.

Imran Sheikh, whose half centuries had helped India win the deaf and mute cricket World Cup 10 years ago, currently runs a kachori stall for living. He feels playing deaf and mute cricket matches doesn’t help him financially.

“Cricket is my passion and I want to keep playing. But my financial condition is not good enough to support my family. Playing deaf and mute cricket matches doesn't earn me much money. So I started a nutritious kachori stall with the help of my wife Roza for earning extra income. I also got a temporary job in Gujarat Refinery, thanks to my coach Nitendra Singh,” Imran told The Times of India in sign language. He along with his wife sells ‘moong kachori’ at Old Padra Road in Vadodara.

The 30-year-old, who became Indian deaf and mute cricket team’s captain three years ago, led his team in Asia Cup T20 tournament this year. In 2005 deaf and mute World Cup, Imran’s performance was impressive. Against Nepal he scored 70 runs, 60 against New Zealand. His 62 runs’ knock against Pakistan in the semifinals helped India win the match.

The six-foot tall cricketer played a key role in the final against England by scoring 40 runs and bagging three wickets. India won this tournament.

Imran does not want to play cricket anymore: Coach

“I used to watch matches on television and later began playing at Bhutadizampa ground. But my coach Nitendra Singh mentored me for higher level of cricket. I got into Gujarat team and then in Indian team,” said Imran who had started playing cricket when he was 15-years-old.

Talking about his student, Nitendra Singh said, “He is a genuine talent and has worked hard to play cricket at the highest level. He last captained Indian deaf and mute team in the Asia Cup T20 tournament in April this year. Sadly, he wasn't picked up for the U-19 tourney in BCA years ago as he is deaf and mute.” The cricketer doesn’t want to play cricket anymore due to lack of opportunities. Nitendra said, “It will be unfortunate if he does this.”

Imran’s wife Roza thanked the people of Vadodara and requested their local government for help. She said, “We recently moved out of our family house. Barodians have been very supportive and queuing up to eat at our stall. We would be glad if the local government helps us get a permanent place for our eatery.”