I was short of Rs 600 to play CK Nayudu Trophy: Irrfan Khan had revealed he wanted to become a cricketer instead of an actor

National-award winning actor Irrfan Khan, on Wednesday, passed away in Mumbai after battling a medical complication that arose from a colon infection. Irrfan, 53, was known for his effortless and versatile acting. He delivered many memorable films during his decorated career and left a mark on every individual with his natural performances. Irrfan played a major role in the Oscar-winning movie ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ and his last Bollywood film was the recently-released Angrezi Medium.

While his fans are all aware of the exemplary work he did in Bollywood, a very few set of fans know that the actor wanted to become a cricketer. Irrfan wanted to participate in the CK Nayudu trophy which is considered as the stepping stone to the First-class career. However, the actor was short of Rs 600 and that served as a roadblock over his ambitions of becoming a cricketer.

In an interview with the Telegraph India, Irrfan had admitted that he wanted to become a cricketer and he was even selected for the CK Nayudu tournament. Irrfan was an all-rounder and was the youngest in the side. However, the shortage of funds made him leave cricket as he couldn’t ask anyone for a sum of Rs 600 at that time.

“I played cricket. I wanted to become a cricketer. I was an all-rounder and the youngest one in my team in Jaipur. I wanted to make a career out of it. I was selected for the CK Nayudu tournament I think and then I needed money and didn’t know who to ask. That day I decided I cannot pursue it. I couldn’t have asked for Rs 600 at that time,” Irrfan had said.

Irrfan Khan later went to National School of Drama

Irrfan’s career then took a different route as he took admission in the prestigious National School of Drama (NSD). However, he was short of Rs 300 for the admission process too. But it was his sister who came to Irrfan’s rescue and arranged the amount for him.

“I needed Rs 300 for National School of Drama, which was difficult for me. My sister finally got it for me,” Irrfan had revealed.

The actor had also opined about both the industries — cricket and acting– and had stated that there was no age limit in the field of acting. Irrfan had added that you yourself are your own weapon in acting and it all depends on an individual’s hard work.

“Giving up cricket was a conscious decision. There are only 11 players in the whole country. Actors mein koi limit nahin hai! There is no age limit in acting… jitna mehnat karoge….You yourself are your own weapon,” he had said.