Mohsin Khan’s Remarkable Comeback
NEW DELHI: Badruddin Siddiqui had a memorable Wednesday evening as he watched two of his former students play for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) against the Delhi Capitals at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. This match marked a significant milestone for both players he had trained since their teenage years.
Mohammed Shami opened the bowling by dismissing KL Rahul with his very first delivery, while Mohsin Khan bowled brilliantly during his spell, taking the wicket of Nitish Rana and restricting Sameer Rizvi to just two runs off ten balls. In his initial three overs, Mohsin conceded only six runs, showcasing his exceptional skills against Tristan Stubbs, who could only manage four runs in six balls.
However, it was not just his bowling that caught Badruddin’s attention; it was Mohsin’s on-field effort that truly impressed him. On the fifth ball of the 12th over, Mohsin executed a stunning full-stretched dive to prevent two runs at third man, which prompted Badruddin to leap off his couch in excitement. “Ab darr khatam ho chuka hai” (He is not afraid anymore), Badruddin remarked, emphasizing the indication of Mohsin’s supreme fitness despite a career plagued by injuries.
Despite showing great promise in IPL 2022 with 14 wickets in ten matches, Mohsin suffered a severe shoulder injury that sidelined him for an entire year. After a struggle with injuries in IPL 2023, he made an impactful return by successfully defending 11 runs in the final over against the Mumbai Indians, demonstrating his resilience.
Badruddin acknowledged the unfortunate nature of Mohsin’s injuries, saying, “Injuries become part and parcel of any fast bowler,” but highlighted the importance of a solid training regimen. He believes that while gym workouts are beneficial, nothing can replace on-field experience for a fast bowler looking to enhance their skills.
In the backdrop of Mohsin’s journey, the support from Shami has been invaluable. Living and training at Shami’s farmhouse during the lockdown has yielded positive results for Mohsin, as he rediscovered his rhythm and fitness. Badruddin recounted a humorous moment where Shami reminded Mohsin that while the gym can shape one’s body, it won’t improve bowling performance, leaving Mohsin visibly shocked.
As Mohsin continues to refine his bowling techniques and embrace a healthier lifestyle under Shami’s guidance, Badruddin is particularly pleased with his fielding. “Aaj tak usne dive nahi maari life mein” (He had never dived in his life), he stated, expressing how far Mohsin has come in overcoming his fears. Mohsin’s journey emphasizes the significance of hard work, perseverance, and the right training approach in becoming a successful athlete.
