(Image Source: ANI)
[Saba Sports News] Indian cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar recently praised Amir Hussain, a 34-year-old differently-abled cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir who leads the Para cricket team in his region. Hussain, who has been playing professional cricket since 2013, was introduced to Para cricket by his teacher. Despite losing both arms in an accident at his father’s mill when he was eight, he has developed a unique style of playing, batting by holding the bat between his shoulder and neck and bowling with his feet.
A video showcasing Amir, clad in a Sachin Tendulkar jersey, expertly batting and bowling in the nets, captured Tendulkar’s attention. Touched by Amir’s dedication to cricket, Tendulkar expressed his admiration and a desire to meet Hussain and have a jersey featuring his name.
Tendulkar’s heartfelt message on his social media highlighted Hussain’s inspiring journey, stating, “And Amir has made the impossible possible. I am so touched watching this! Shows how much love and dedication he has for the game. Hope I get to meet him one day and get a jersey with his name. Well done for inspiring millions who are passionate about playing the sport.”
India also has a notable presence in blind cricket, with a national team managed by the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), affiliated with the World Blind Cricket Council (WBCC). The team competes in One Day International and T20 International matches and has won several major titles, including the T20 World Cup in 2012 and 2017, and the ODI World Cup Championship in 2014 and 2018.
In another recognition of para-athletes in India, 17-year-old para-archer Sheetal Devi was recently honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award, India’s second highest sporting accolade, following her victory at the Asian Para Games. She made history as the youngest World Archery Champion in the modern era and India’s first-ever senior world champion in her debut international season.