Swinging Through The Wind: An Exclusive Interview With UP Cricket Stalwart Obaid Kamal

In the realm of domestic cricket, where international stars often dominate the headlines, there exists a constellation of unsung heroes whose contributions are equally remarkable. Among these luminaries is Obaid Kamal, a stalwart of Uttar Pradesh cricket whose prowess with the ball has consistently shone brightly. Renowned for his skillful swing bowling, Kamal has been instrumental in his state’s cricketing successes and continues to influence the game as the bowling coach for the Kashi Rudras in the UP T20 League. This exclusive interview delves into Kamal’s illustrious career, his significant achievements, and his current role in shaping the future of cricket in Uttar Pradesh.

A Triumph Against the Odds: The 1998-99 Ranji Trophy Semi-Final

One of the defining moments of Obaid Kamal’s career came during the 1998-99 Ranji Trophy semi-final against Bombay at the Wankhede Stadium. Kamal’s recollection of this match reveals the magnitude of the challenge and the exhilaration of triumph. “Beating Bombay was a dream, especially with the formidable domestic stars in their lineup,” Kamal recalls. The Mumbai team of that era, featuring cricketing legends, was a daunting opponent. Kamal’s team, led by Ashish Winston Zaidi, faced the formidable challenge head-on. Zaidi’s exceptional performance, including a six-wicket haul in the first innings, set the stage for a memorable victory. Kamal, who played a crucial role with five wickets for 58 runs, vividly remembers his declaration to the media before the fourth innings: “I will make sure that we’ll be winning the match and I will make sure that we win it comprehensively.”

Clearing the Air: The Rahul Dravid Incident

An incident involving Rahul Dravid and allegations of ball tampering has lingered in the cricketing world. Kamal addresses this with a mix of humor and clarity. “Look, this incident is a funny one,” he begins. The rumors of ball tampering emerged after the semi-final against Mumbai, where the conditions at Wankhede, with its proximity to the sea, facilitated reverse swing. Dravid, known for his integrity, approached Kamal with these concerns. “He asked me, ‘What are these things I am hearing, Obaid?’” Kamal chuckles as he recalls Dravid’s gentlemanly query. “I told him, if that’s the case, you can yourself look into the match,” he adds with a laugh, dispelling any lingering doubts about his conduct.

The Enchanted Legacy of Allahabad: Kamal’s Roots

Obaid Kamal’s journey in cricket is deeply intertwined with his roots in Allahabad (Prayagraj). Known for producing exceptional cricketing talent, this city has played a significant role in shaping Kamal’s career. “Indeed, my motherland is magical,” Kamal reflects. He attributes his cricketing journey to his family’s support, particularly his elder brothers, Javed and Parvez Kamal. Despite initial resistance due to Kamal’s youthful exuberance, his determination and hard work eventually earned their support. “When they saw I was focused and worked hard on my game, they came forward to help me,” Kamal acknowledges, highlighting the pivotal role his family played in his development.

Mentoring the Future: Kamal’s Role as Bowling Coach

Currently serving as the bowling coach for the Kashi Rudras in the UP T20 League, Kamal is instrumental in nurturing young talent. He speaks highly of the promising players in his squad, particularly highlighting last year’s standout performer, Atal Rai. “We have young players and good players in fact,” Kamal says. Rai, despite dealing with injuries last year, demonstrated exceptional skill and resilience. “He managed his injuries and played like a champion,” Kamal notes, emphasizing Rai’s dedication and potential as a fast bowler. Kamal’s role involves not just coaching but also inspiring the next generation of cricketers, contributing to the team’s overall growth.

Defending the Title: Kamal’s Vision for the Kashi Rudras

As the reigning champions of the UP T20 League, the Kashi Rudras are gearing up for another competitive season. Kamal expresses a cautious optimism about defending their title. “We can’t really say about the future right now, as cricket is a funny game,” he admits. However, he remains confident in the team’s preparation and experience from the previous season. “We played as a unit and were gifted by the almighty for our hard work,” he reflects. With a new lineup and renewed energy, Kamal and his team are determined to lift the coveted trophy once again.

The Legacy Continues: Kamal’s Impact on Cricket

Obaid Kamal’s contributions to Uttar Pradesh cricket extend beyond his playing days. His role as a coach is a testament to his enduring passion for the game and his commitment to nurturing talent. Through his guidance, Kamal continues to leave an indelible mark on the cricketing landscape, influencing the future of the sport in his region. His journey from a talented bowler to a respected coach highlights the rich tapestry of domestic cricket, where dedication and skill often shine away from the limelight. As Kamal leads the Kashi Rudras into the new season, his legacy of excellence and mentorship remains a beacon for aspiring cricketers.

Obaid Kamal’s story is one of dedication, triumph, and ongoing contribution to the game of cricket. From his memorable performances on the field to his impactful role as a coach, Kamal’s journey reflects the essence of cricket’s domestic circuit, where local heroes play a pivotal role in shaping the sport’s future.

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