Uzair Nabi – 13-year-old cricketer who went viral for carrying cricket kit in rice bag

The heartwarming tale of a 13-year-old cricket enthusiast Uzair Nabi from Tarhama Kunzer in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district has touched the hearts of many. A video of him carrying cricket equipment in a rice bag went viral and became the epitome of passion and dedication among young cricketers of India. He dreams of representing his district and his state on the national stage and is inspired by his role model Virat Kohli.

“I used to carry cricket equipment in my hand earlier. Later on, I took a gunny bag and crafted a cricket bag out of it. I never knew my picture would go viral and receive so much fame,” Uzair shared with a smile when asked about his viral video. “It wasn’t easy. Watching other teammates with sophisticated cricket kit bags used to hurt me a lot, but I am aware of my family’s financial status,” he added.

‘This gift has boosted my confidence to pursue my dreams’ – Uzair Nabi

Seeing Uzair’s potential and spirit, his family tried to seek support from the district administration who acted quickly and gifted him with a new kit bag.  “I am incredibly thankful to the district administration, especially to DC Baramulla Syed Sehrish Asgar, for their invaluable support. This gift means the world to me and has boosted my confidence to pursue my dreams with even greater enthusiasm,” said Uzair expressing his gratitude.

Talking of Uzair’s role model Virat Kohli, he recently flew back to India following team India’s wins in the Test and ODI series at the West Indies. He returned home on a special private flight arranged by Global Air Charter Services. Kohli looked in fine form, he played back-to-back impressive knocks of 76 and 121 in the two Tests. Notably, his century came in his 500^th international game which happened to be the second Test at the Port of Spain in Trinidad. He did not get an opportunity to bat in the ODIs but made sure to contribute to the team with occasional appearances in fielding and even serving drinks between the overs.