The Pakistan-born opening batter got more votes than superstar Shaheen Afridi as he became the first UAE player to win the ICC award
cricket3 hours ago
Speaking at his self-entitled, 12th annual awards ceremony to acknowledge cricketing excellence within the UAE on Monday evening, the ardent fan is determined to widen its appeal to those less fortunate elsewhere.
Bhatia has already published a book, installed an all-encompassing museum in the back garden of his Jumeirah residence and handed out hundreds of thousands of dirhams in cash prizes to talented players and umpires.
But, he now intends to carry his altruistic approach and infectious enthusiasm through into this worldwide fundraising venture.
“My next project, which is ongoing and one I want to pursue more, is called: ‘Cricket For Care,’” Bhatia said.
“As always, my dream again is that I want to give children and youngsters, who cannot afford to play this game, something to play.
“Cricket is a wonderful, team game; it teaches you so much in life. We are distributing cricket kits around the world at the moment, including Afghanistan and South Africa and even to non-cricket playing countries like Indonesia and Thailand. We keep on doing that.”
Bhatia found a fervent supporter of his on the night as well, with guest of honour Kapil Dev hailing his role in extolling the benefits of cricket to the masses.
“If we don’t have people like Shyam, this game will die. We need fans like him, who can keep up the game,” he said.
“There are people like me, who – if you come to my home – you will not find one picture or anything about cricket because I feel that was my dream, which I’ve fulfilled, and that’s it.
“But, when I see this side of people – who love this game and made it so big and popular – it’s unbelievable.”
The Pakistan-born opening batter got more votes than superstar Shaheen Afridi as he became the first UAE player to win the ICC award
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