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Fahim streaks past the sounds of silence
Fahimuddin Abassi, a deaf and dumb speedster, has impressed everyone with his sheer pace and dedication, writes Saji Chacko.
The strapping youngster thoughtfully makes his way back to his bowling run-up. He turns around and sprints in to unleash a typical left-armer's ball — one that brushes past the outside edge of the bat. A ball later, a yorker sends the stumps cartwheeling. Meet Fahimuddin Abassi, the deaf and dumb speedster who has impressed everyone with his sheer pace and dedication.
The 18-year-old Fahimuddin, a ninth standard student of the Deaf and Dumb School, is an avid Irfan Pathan fan. Like his idol, his stock ball is the outswinger.
Fahimuddin made a big mark in the recently concluded one-day silent series against Pakistan. He showcased his talent with a 10-wicket haul in four matches. After missing the opener in Lahore due to visa problems, he established his credentials with a four-wicket haul in Karachi. "That will remain in my mind for a long time," he says in sign language, interpreted by brother Naeemuddin.
Aggression is a fast bowler's trademark and Fahimuddin is no exception. He glares at any batsman who clouts him and explains, "Cricket is a mental game and you cannot allow the batsman to get the better of you. You have to give it back."
Coach Tarak Sinha is all high praise for Fahimuddin, who trains at Sonnet Club. "After Nehra (Ashish), I feel Fahimuddin has the potential to make it as a big left-arm seamer for Delhi. He is tall and gets the angle which makes it difficult for any batsman to negotiate." Sin ha says he has been greatly impressed by the youngster's willingness to learn. "He is ready to listen and take steps to alter his run up and follow through." Is being deaf and dumb a stumbling block? "No," he asserts with a grin. Being impaired, he knows that he has to work that much harder in order to compete with normal sportsmen.
Sinha says there's only one possible problem. He feels it is difficult for a captain to give instructions to Fahim. "Especially as regards field placements, it is difficult to communicate easily."
Fahim, the youngest of eight brothers and a sister, spends hours watching tapes of matches. "By watching recordings, I am able to learn things about bowling that are not in any coaching manual."
Right now, he is targetting a place in the Delhi Ranji team. "I know it is going to be tough but I am confident. Let us wait and see," he signs off with a grin.
