13 Cricketing stories of rags to riches in Indian cricket
If we take a look at the Indian cricketing circle, we will encounter numerous inspirational stories of players who have traversed their way from rags to riches.
7. Munaf Patel
Hailing from the distant village, Ikhar of Gujarat, young Munaf Patel saw the grim face of poverty up close. While his father was employed as a labourer, Munaf himself contributed to his family’s earnings by working as a child labourer in a child factory, for which he was able to earn Rs. 35 per day. He was well-known in his village for his pace bowling, but being the victim of harsh circumstances, he didn’t have the amenities to practice cricket at a professional level. Deprived of standard cricketing equipment, he would play with tennis balls, while wearing chappals instead of spiked boots.
He was well-known in his village for his pace bowling, but being the victim of harsh circumstances, he didn’t have the amenities to practice cricket at a professional level. Deprived of standard cricketing equipment, he would play with tennis balls, while wearing chappals instead of spiked boots.
Life finally looked brighter for Patel when he was selected into the Baroda Club, and subsequently went on to be coached by the legendary fast bowler, Dennis Lillee at the MRF Pace Academy. It was at this academy that he was noticed by Australian great, Steve Waugh for his quick bowling and Waugh recommended the young talent to Sachin Tendulkar.
Beating all odds, Patel made his debut for India in 2006 and went on to become a successful pacer for the nation. He was also a part of the 2011 World Cup winning Indian side, where he was the 3rd highest wicket-taker of the tournament, with 11 wickets to his name.
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