Super dads who became wind beneath their kids’ wings in their cricketing dreams-OxBig News Network

Nem Chand, Naushad, and Mutalya—names that may not ring the bell immediately, but their stories will leave you inspired. These are the proud fathers of Dhruv Jurel, Sarfaraz Khan, and Nitish Kumar Reddy, three rising stars in Indian cricket. Behind their sons’ success are years of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering belief. These fathers endured countless challenges to ensure their children could live their dreams, often putting aside their own aspirations to support their journey.

The year 2024 marked a new dawn in Indian cricket, as Jurel, Sarfaraz, and Nitish made their much-awaited Test debuts, each delivering performances that grabbed attention. From Dhruv’s calm under pressure to Sarfaraz’s gritty resilience and Nitish’s fearless approach, they showcased why they are seen as the future of Indian cricket. For their fathers, these moments were a culmination of years of struggle, hope, and unrelenting commitment to their sons’ dreams—a testament to the enduring power of a parent’s love and belief.

The nation is in awe of Nitish Kumar Reddy and his father’s role in his journey to the top. Nitish scored his maiden Test hundred on Day 3 of the 4th Test between Australia and India. While all eyes were on Nitish as he was batting on 99, cameras also panned towards his father, who was in the stands and praying for his son to reach his milestone. When the moment arrived as Nitish hit Scott Boland for a straight lofted drive, his father couldn’t help but break down in tears. The tears depicted as if all his sacrifices, his efforts and years of investment finally paid off.

When Nitish’s father left his job for son’s dreams

““Tension, tension, tension,” Mutalya said when Adam Gilchrist asked him about his emotions during that moment. “For our family, it’s a special day we will never forget. Nitish has been performing well since he was 14–15 years old, but to see him succeed at the international level is very special.”

Speaking about the nail-biting situation, he added, “I was very tense. Only one wicket was left, and thankfully, Siraj managed to survive.”

It wasn’t just a century for Nitish; it was a celebration of his father’s dedication and the support that helped him achieve his dreams.

Naushad: I am playing Test through Sarfaraz

However, this was not the only time that a father was teary-eyed to see his son excel in India colours. This dates back to February 15, when Sarfaraz Khan’s wait for his debut finally ended. Sarfaraz Khan’s father, Naushad Khan, got emotional as the proud man was unable to control his tears. Naushad was at the Saurashtra Cricket Association in Rajkot on Thursday as he watched the cap presentation ceremony of his son from close quarters. The 26-year-old quickly ran towards his father and hugged him as it was an emotional moment for the family, knowing they had put in years of hard work.

Sarfaraz expressed heartfelt gratitude towards his father, who had been his coach since childhood, saying it felt like a significant burden had been lifted off his shoulders.

Naushad revealed that he is living his own dream of playing Test cricket through his son and all the hard work and patience had finally paid off.

“It was my dream that what I could not do, he will. It felt like I wore the Test cap through him,” Naushad told Aaktak.

“I am playing Test cricket through him. He wears my name on his back 9 and 7, which is Nau-Saat, my name – Naushad. I am happy as both coach and father,” Sarfaraz’s father said.

Dhruv Jurel’s salute tribute to his Kargil veteran father

Dhruv Jurel’s maiden Test fifty against England in the 4th Test at Ranchi was more than just a cricketing milestone; it was a heartfelt tribute to his father, Nem Singh Jurel, a Kargil War veteran. After reaching the landmark, the 22-year-old wicketkeeper-batter celebrated with a salute, honouring his father’s service and fulfilling a childhood tradition. The gesture was inspired by a conversation the night before, where his father subtly asked him to perform the salute, a symbol of their bond since Dhruv’s early days.

Jurel’s journey to this moment has been one of resilience and sacrifice. At the age of 14, he left his home in Agra to pursue cricket at an academy in Noida under coach Phool Chand. His mother, in a testament to her unwavering support, sold her gold jewellery to buy Dhruv his first cricket kit. Despite financial challenges, his father’s belief in Dhruv’s potential never wavered, inspiring him to chase his dreams.

The salute wasn’t just a celebration but a culmination of years of dedication and sacrifices made by his parents, showcasing their integral role in shaping his cricketing journey and his heartfelt gratitude for their support.

Behind every rising star in Indian cricket lies a story of unyielding parental sacrifice and love. Fathers like Nem Chand, Naushad Khan, and Mutalya Reddy embody this narrative, their unwavering belief fueling the dreams of Dhruv Jurel, Sarfaraz Khan, and Nitish Kumar Reddy.