Trailblazer from the Valley

[1]

Parvez Rasool went down history books on Friday, becoming the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to represent India at the senior level. The Indian selectors picked the 24-year-old all-rounder in the 15-member squad the five-match ODI series in Zimbabwe.
In the past, many cricketers from the Valley like his childhood coach Abdul Qayoom Bagaw and more recently Abid Nabi — both pacers— came close but none could seal the ultimate India berth. “It came on expected lines,” said Rasool. “I thought the selectors will rest a few regulars including R. Ashwin during the Zimbabwe tour, so I will get a chance and all thanks to Allah.”
In his seven Ranji matches last season, Rasool scored 594 runs with two centuries, and took 33 wickets.
“It is just a beginning and I hope can go a long way. I hope more state cricketers will emulate me,” a confident Rasool said.
The decision to rest frontline off-spinner Ashwin paved the way for Rasool’s selection in the senior team, since he too is an off-spinner.
Incidentally Rasool was better known for his batting until legendary former Indian spinner Bishan Singh Bedi, who coached Jammu & Kashmir in the past season, told him to focus on his bowling as well.