Jammu & Kashmir batting sensation eyes IPL 2018

In 2013 Parvez Rasool became the first player from Jammu and Kashmir to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after he was picked up by the now-discarded franchise, Pune Supergiants. Since then, Rasool had plied his trade successfully in the IPL and went on to play for other franchises like Royal Challengers Bangalore and Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Now his footsteps could be matched by sensational cricketer Manzoor Ahmad Dar. The 24-year-old weightlifter, kabaddi player, a security guard and a wood artist could very well see himself in the upcoming edition of the IPL. Manzoor was picked in Jammu & Kashmir squad for the upcoming T20 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, his second season with them.

Hailing from a small village in Bandipore district, the youngster is known for his strong hitting capabilities. He keeps the ability to hit the ball hard, handsome and long, even with a raw willow cleft, let alone a Kashmir willow bat.

His coach and selectors swear by his raw talent and ability to hit balls out of the biggest grounds. And the exciting prospect also shared his desire to feature in the IPL. “I am targeting IPL. Let us see how it goes,” he said.

Manzoor has a natural talent for big-hitting

According to News18.com, lauding Manzoor, J&K coach Abdul Qayoom said, “He is Mr 100 meter sixer man. He gives the ball a real thump. Last year in a match with Punjab, he hit a few sixes that were 100 meters plus.”

He added, “This boy has the talent for the shorter game. Give him 12 to 15 deliveries and he will tilt the game in his team’s favor.”

Standing at 6 feet 2 inches Manzoor has a stocky build and weighs a solid 84 kg which complements his big-hitting. The soft-spoken all-rounder comes from a poor family. His father is a labourer and struggles to make both ends meet and Manzoor being the eldest son, has to shoulder most of the responsibilities.

All Manzoor needs is a few good performances and exposure in the upcoming Zonal T20 league and his dream of playing in the IPL might soon get fulfilled.