Hurmat Irshad — Eight-year-old Sopore girl captivates internet with cricket skills

SOPORE — An eight-year-old girl from north Kashmir’s Sopore has taken the internet by storm with her extraordinary cricket batting skills, inspired by international star cricketers Fakhar Zaman and Mithali Raj.

Hurmat Irshad dreams of playing for the Indian cricket team. Her remarkable talent has caught the attention of none other than the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

Hailing from Pazalpora Bomai, a small hamlet of Sopore town in Baramulla district, the young chap’s video clip showcasing her impressive batting prowess has gone viral on social media platforms, garnering widespread admiration and praise. Her extraordinary batting skills draw comparison to cricketing start Fakhar Zaman.

While speaking to the news agency KNO, Hurmat, a 2nd standard student, said she is inspired by the achievements of Fakhar Zaman, a star cricketer of the Pakistan team and Mitahali Raj, the former Indian cricketer. She aspires to represent the national cricket team on the international stage.

“I have been practising cricket for the last four years. It was my grandfather (Ghulam Nabi Bhat) who used to take me to a nearby playfield, sparking my interest in the sport,” she said. “I love the way Fakhar Zaman and Mithali Raj play.”

Hurmat’s best shot is cover-drive and she is working hard to perfect it with dedication and practice. “I hope to continue improving and will make a mark in the world of international cricket,” she said.

Her video clips caught the eye of Sachin Tendulkar, popularly known as “Master Blaster”. The legendary cricketer took to ‘X’ to praise her talent. “Always good to see young girls playing cricket. Watching videos like these brings a smile to my face,” Sachin wrote.

The young girl’s parents have expressed pride and support for her aspirations. “I was repeatedly informed by the people about my daughter’s exceptional talent and the need to support her. It was her grandfather who provided guidance and encouragement to her,” Hurmat’s father, Irshad Ahmed Bhat, said.

We were informed by media persons that Sachin Tendulkar tweeted about her, and it was a moment of immense joy for all of us. “It felt like she was already playing for the Indian cricket team,” the proud father expressed.

Bhat said they want to see their daughter representing the Indian cricket team.

Similarly, local cricket enthusiasts have hailed the young girl’s talent as a testament to the growing interest and talent in cricket among youngsters in and around the locality.

They commended her dedication and skill at such a young age and pledged to support her journey towards achieving her cricketing goals.