In our latest series ‘Stars Behind the Screen’, we trace the journey of unsung heroes of J&K sports world, including support staff and other backstage members.
Srinagar, June 10: J&K had an unforgettable last domestic cricket season. We all know who were the top performers but do we have any idea about the people who worked tirelessly from behind the screen?
One among them was Sheikh Suhail, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)-qualified video analyst, who has been working with the J&K cricket team for quite a while now. Born in Pulwama, Suhail wanted to be a cricketer during his teenage days.
He was even somehow successful, representing J&K at the U-19 level in 2005/06 season.
“I started my career as a cricketer and played for J&K U-19 team. Then, I was associated with club cricket also for a long time before landing to the officiating arena.” Suhail told KSW in an interview.
Being a bright student, Suhail had to continue his studies as well, which somehow kept him away from the play-field. However, he didn’t give up his love for the game.
“After graduating from Kashmir University in Mass Communication, I qualified the Video Analyst exam, held by National Academy of Umpires (NAU) at Nagpur. Following which my journey as an analyst bagan.” An elated Suhail recalled.
Thereon, he didn’t look back and was a part of several Ranji Trophy and other major domestic tournaments, helping players improve their game by composing and analyzing the videos.
“I have been a regular part of Ranji Trophy since 2013, mostly working under BCCI.” He said.
Suhail was also a part of J&K team when they qualified for the quarter-finals for the first time ever back in 2013/14 season. Since then he has been a regular part of all pre-season camps, held by Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association.
Talking about the role he plays as an analyst, Suhail, said, “We have an important role in coaching and performance of players during and after the matches. We act as third umpires in Ranji matches with match referees,”
“Basically, we are part of BCCI and we represent it in state matches as we are appointed and paid by them.”
Having completed a cricket coaching course from National Institute of Sports (NIS) Patiala in 2017, Suhail, works closely with J&K players. He was a major part of support staff in most of the matches of the side during last season as well.