Naseem Shah’s journey in international cricket has been nothing short of remarkable, but behind the scenes, the young player carries the weight of more than just his expectations.
Since making his debut for Pakistan at the tender age of 16, Naseem has reached great heights, becoming the youngest fast bowler to pick up five wickets in Test cricket. He also took a hat-trick at the age of 16 against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
Naseem Shah talks about his journey beyond the pitch
However, these feats have brought with them their own challenges, both personal and professional, including injuries that forced him to miss the ODI World Cup in India last year. Naseem’s five-year international career has been marred by injuries. However, he remains one of the most talented players in the world.
Meanwhile, ahead of the two-match Test series against Bangladesh at home, Naseem revealed that the emotional strain of watching his son’s performances on the world stage has taken a toll on his father.
The Pakistani player revealed that his father was not originally a cricket fan but is now watching every ball whenever the Men in Green are in action because he is a cricketer. Naseem said that his father gets distressed when Pakistan loses matches so he always tries to make sure that he is not watching the matches that they must win.
Naseem reveals that his father is going through a health problem
The pressure of knowing his father’s fragile health adds an extra layer of responsibility on Naseem’s young shoulders as the young pacer has to ensure that his father does not watch the big games, for fear that the emotional rollercoaster could aggravate his health condition.
Shah said that this situation is like he is playing two games at a time – one on the field and another in his heart. Naseem said that the life of a cricketer is always in the spotlight and is full of invisible struggles. He further mentioned that the world watches the ups and downs of their career but very few are aware of the personal battles they fight off the field.
Amidst rigorous training, intense matches and the weight of a nation’s expectations, like other players, the 21-year-old said he also continues to seek out small moments of happiness, hoping to find a balance between his passion for the game and the well-being of his family.
I call my brothers to make sure our father doesn’t watch important matches: Naseem Shah
Naseem Shah told Cricbuzz: “My father is going through some health issues. There was a time when he didn’t know anything about cricket but now he watches every ball and gets distressed when we lose. So before every big game, I call my brothers to make sure our father doesn’t see it.
I’m afraid it could lead to more serious health complications. [the pressure] “It’s like I’m playing two games at once. There’s a lot going on behind the scenes in a cricketer’s life that people aren’t aware of. Sometimes, all you’re looking for are little moments of happiness.”
It is noteworthy that Shah will be in action when Pakistan take on Bangladesh in the opening game of the two-match Test series at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium starting Wednesday, August 21.
