Cricket is more than just a sport in India; it’s a passion that unites millions. However, the path to success in this sport is often filled with challenges. The story of Mohammad Aman, the newly appointed captain of India’s Under-19 cricket team, is one of immense struggle and resilience. His journey from an orphaned teenager to a national cricket captain is nothing short of inspirational.
A Tough Childhood in Saharanpur
Mohammad Aman hails from Saharanpur, a city in Uttar Pradesh. His childhood was marked by hardship and loss. His mother, Sayba, passed away during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Just two years later, in 2022, his father Mehtab, who was a truck driver, also passed away. At just 16 years old, Aman found himself alone, responsible for his three younger siblings. The weight of these responsibilities made his childhood far from easy.
In a candid interview, Aman shared, “The day I lost my father, I felt like I grew up overnight. Suddenly, I was the head of the family, and I had to take care of my younger sister and two brothers. Cricket seemed like a distant dream at that point.”
A Passion for Cricket Despite the Struggles
Despite the overwhelming challenges, Aman never let go of his passion for cricket. There were moments when he considered giving up the sport altogether to find a job and support his family. However, the encouragement from people around him, who recognized his talent, kept him going. “There were times when I had to sleep on an empty stomach,” Aman recalled. “Hunger taught me never to waste food. It also made me more determined to succeed.”
Aman’s determination paid off. Despite his struggles, he continued to pursue cricket, often traveling to Kanpur for UPCA age group trials. The journeys were tough, as he often had to travel in the general compartment of trains, sitting near the toilets. But the hardships didn’t deter him. His perseverance eventually led to his selection in various age-group teams for Uttar Pradesh, starting from Under-14 to Under-19.
Achievements and Recognition
Aman’s cricketing career began to take off when he started performing exceptionally well in domestic tournaments. In the 2022-23 season, he played for the Uttar Pradesh Under-19 team in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy, where he scored 363 runs in eight innings, including four half-centuries. His consistent performance made him one of the standout players in the tournament.
Moreover, Aman shone brightly in the Under-19 Challenger Series, where he was the second-highest run-scorer, amassing 294 runs at an impressive average of 98. His performance caught the attention of selectors, leading to his appointment as the captain of the Uttar Pradesh Under-19 team in 2023.
Now, as the captain of India’s Under-19 cricket team, Aman is ready to lead his team with the same grit and determination that defined his journey. His story has touched the hearts of many, showcasing the power of resilience and hard work.
India’s ODI and Test Under-19 Squads
Aman will be leading a talented group of young cricketers in upcoming matches. The Indian Under-19 ODI squad against Australia includes players like Rudra Patel, Sahil Parikh, Kartikey KP, Kiran Chormale, and wicketkeepers Abhigyan Kundu and Harvansh Singh Pangalia. In the Test squad, Soham Patwardhan will captain, with Aman focusing on his ODI leadership duties.
As Mohammad Aman takes on the responsibility of leading India’s next generation of cricketers, his story serves as a beacon of hope for many young athletes across the country. Despite losing his parents at a young age and facing countless challenges, his journey is a testament to what can be achieved with dedication, passion, and the right support.
