Mumbai Pace bowler, Juned Khan, a former autorickshaw driver, debuts in the 2024 Irani Cup, claiming Ruturaj Gaikwad’s wicket. Know his inspiring cricketing journey!
In a remarkable tale of perseverance and talent, Mohammad Juned Khan, a fast bowler hailing from Kannauj, has transitioned from driving an autorickshaw to making waves in Indian cricket. His journey began when he moved to Mumbai in search of work to support his family, initially toiling in a garment factory before stepping into the world of autorickshaw driving.
Despite facing numerous challenges, fate had other plans for Juned, leading him back to cricket. His fairytale journey culminated in a dream debut for Mumbai in the Irani Cup, where he celebrated in style by claiming the wicket of Ruturaj Gaikwad in his very first spell.
The 24-year-old expressed his disbelief and excitement, stating that he struggled to sleep the night before his debut, describing the experience as a dream come true. He remarked, “The wicket was a bonus. Just to find myself here is like a dream in itself.”
Juned Khan’s inspiring cricketing journey
His life took a significant turn when he found himself at the Sanjeevani Cricket Academy, which is managed by former Mumbai wicketkeeper Manish Bangera. Although Juned’s experience had primarily been with tennis ball cricket, he boldly took the plunge to bowl with a cricket ball for the first time.
With encouragement from Bangera, Juned faced various hurdles on his path to success. He recalled not having the funds to buy proper cricket spikes but was grateful for the support from those around him who motivated him to keep pursuing the sport he loved.
His big break came when Abhishek Nayar, India’s assistant coach and former Kolkata Knight Riders coach, spotted him while he was playing for the PJ Hindu Gymkhana in the Police Shield. Impressed by his skills during tournaments like the Buchi Babu and KSCA, Juned earned his debut for Mumbai in the Irani Cup.
Despite his achievements, Juned’s journey hasn’t been without struggle. He drove an autorickshaw from 2015 to 2018 after initially working as a helper in a jeans factory. His commitment to cricket grew stronger after meeting Nayar in 2019, who encouraged him to abandon his driving job and focus on his cricketing aspirations. Juned shared that this mentorship transformed his life.
Though he initially lacked the necessary equipment, such as bowling spikes, Juned persisted, practising in rubber-studded shoes until he could acquire proper gear. He recalled the difficulties faced during the pandemic when his ambitions were temporarily halted due to the lockdown.
However, Juned remained resolute, working tirelessly on his fitness and honing his skills. His dedication eventually paid off when he was invited as a net bowler for the Kolkata Knight Riders, propelling him further into the cricketing world.
Impressive Debut in the Irani Cup 2024
On the day of his debut, nerves and excitement mingled within Juned as he took to the field. He made an immediate impact, claiming the prized wicket of Ruturaj Gaikwad, leaving him in disbelief. “That was an amazing start for me and a minute, I couldn’t believe in myself,” he remarked after Mumbai’s victory in the 2024 Irani Cup.
Juned’s aspirations extend beyond this initial success. He looks up to Mohammed Shami as his idol and is determined to make a significant impact in the upcoming Ranji Trophy 2024-25. Currently bowling at approximately 130 km/h, he is working diligently to elevate his speed to the range of 140-145 km/h for the tournament.
Living with fellow autorickshaw drivers in Bandra, he draws inspiration from their camaraderie and aims to embody their determination as he pursues his cricketing dreams.
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Conclusion
Juned Khan’s story is one of resilience and determination, reminding us that with passion and hard work, dreams can indeed come true. As he embarks on this exciting journey in domestic cricket, he embodies the spirit of a new generation of players who dare to dream big, rising from humble beginnings to inspire many along the way.
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