Amir Ali was no more than a mere name for the cricketing fraternity until Wednesday saw the spectacled man leading Oman to an epic victory over Ireland in the Twenty-20 World Cup qualifier. Representing a country which got associate membership less than two years back, Amir showed Oman – comprising of players of Indian and Pakistan origin – meant business when they locked horns with the Irish in their first game of the tournament.
A breezy 32-run knock from 17 balls at the death ensured Oman taste their first victory in such a big stature competition. But what is interesting is Amir’s journey to cricket and subsequently to the Oman national team.
As the excitement subsides and nerves calm down, Amir recalls the days where he used to be a Marketing Executive with a restaurant “Passage to India”. Incidentally, the job turned out to be his passage to cricket. Ali is grateful to KK Mohandas for allowing him the opportunity to carry forward with the game.
To the delight of Amir, his boss Mohandas has come to support the team all the way from Oman.
“I have played first-class cricket for Karachi Whites. I then shifted to Oman as I was promised a job and also avenue to play cricket. Back home, I used to play for Malir Gymkhana. I played for two years, Rashid Latif was captain,” said Ali.
According to Amir, after their openers put on more than 50 runs in the first six overs, the team had the belief that they could chase it off. “In an earlier match, I had gotten out early trying to score quick runs. But yesterday I wanted to see off a few balls before I went for the big hit,” he said.
Having been away from home for three months, Ali is feeling the pain of separation from his three children. “My wife has been fighting with me and I am also missing my children. But I am enjoying playing for Oman”, he added.
It remains to be seen if Ali can repeat his heroics against Netherlands in their second game. A win against the Dutch would surely add a feather to their cap and enhance their chances to qualify for the main phase.
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