Dubai, March 1: It was an unforgettable moment at the ICC Cricket Academy in Dubai when India's star top-order batsman, Shreyas Iyer, showed a heartwarming gesture towards net bowler Jaskiran Singh. During a Champions Trophy practice session, Iyer approached Jaskiran and gifted him a pair of cricket spikes, turning an ordinary day into a special memory for the enthusiastic spinner.
A Surprising Interaction
Jaskiran, a chartered accountant by profession and a passionate cricket lover, was fielding at long-off when Iyer walked up to him with a friendly greeting, asking, "Paaji kya haal-chaal, sab badiya?" ("Brother, how are you? Everything fine?").In a casual yet meaningful conversation, Iyer asked about Jaskiran's shoe size, and upon learning it was 10, presented him with a pair of cricket spikes. Expressing his excitement, Jaskiran said, "Shreyas bhai came up to me and asked 'What's your shoe size?' I said 10, and then he said, 'I've got something for you,' and he gave me these spikes. It really means a lot."
Turning Disappointment into Delight
Initially, Jaskiran was disheartened for not getting an opportunity to bowl to the Indian batsmen, as the team already had sufficient off-spinners for skipper Rohit Sharma's training sessions. Instead, he bowled during net practices for the Pakistan and Bangladesh teams.Recognizing Jaskiran's disappointment, Iyer's thoughtful gesture transformed his day entirely. Jaskiran described this experience enthusiastically, stating, "I am part of the ICC net bowling team for the Champions Trophy. Today was one such special moment of my life. Received these spikes from Shreyas Iyer."
Jaskiran’s Appreciation for Team India
Reflecting on his journey as an ICC net bowler, Jaskiran added that being around Team India has been rewarding, although he eagerly awaits an opportunity to bowl to his favorite batter, Rishabh Pant."Every batter in Team India is special, but someone whom I look up to is Rishabh Pant because he is a lefty, and due to the natural angle, the ball will go away from him. So, I would really love to bowl to him," Jaskiran explained.
Shreyas Iyer’s Positive Vibes on the Field
Sharing more about his interactions with Iyer, Jaskiran highlighted the Indian batter’s cheerful and encouraging nature on the field. He said, "We have been with Team India since the first session, and today is the fourth. Shreyas bhai is really joyful around the field, and every time the ball comes to me, he's like 'catch it'."Shreyas Iyer has been instrumental for India in the ongoing Champions Trophy, notably scoring a crucial half-century in India's marquee clash against Pakistan. India clinched a convincing six-wicket victory in that game, sealing a spot in the tournament semifinals.
Jaskiran concluded by expressing immense gratitude, emphasizing that receiving the spikes from Iyer—a player crucial in India's batting lineup—made his experience with Team India exceptionally memorable.
