Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin’s son, Mohammad Asaduddin, is in the Goa squad for the coming Ranji Trophy season.
The 28-year-old left-hand batsman is currently one of the ‘professional players’ in the side.
State teams usually get the best performers and experienced cricketers from other states on board. But the selection of Asaduddin from Hyderabad is unique as he has never featured in the Ranji Trophy. The last time he played for a state team was in 2009 when he was a part of Hyderabad Colts XI in the Moin-ud-Dowlah Gold Cup. In 2014, he shifted to Uttar Pradesh but was not given a chance in the playing eleven.
A few months ago, Asaduddin — who has been playing consistently for MP Colts in Hyderabad’s A-division league cricket (he featured for National Club last year) — approached the GCA. With the association excluding seniors from the side this time, it responded to Asaduddin quickly.
“I was part of the IPL auctions too but did not get picked. I was playing well in the local circuit and approached a few associations. That’s how it happened,” Asaduddin told Sportstar on Tuesday evening.
The batsman attended the Anti-Corruption seminar organised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) at the GCA headquarters on Tuesday. While the camps haven’t started yet, Asaduddin is looking forward to the big opportunity. “I did not get an opportunity to play from Hyderabad. So, whoever gives me a chance, I will play. And with all sorts of problems in the HCA, I don’t see a chance,” Asaduddin said.
This time, Goa has decided to bring in three professional cricketers. While Asaduddin and Karnataka batsman, Amit Verma, have been roped in, the association is in search of a bowler.
Asaduddin says that his father is excited about his new assignment. “My dad is really happy for me. This is a big opportunity for me. I will try to give my best in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy,” Asaduddin said.
Sources have also indicated that former India captain, Azharuddin, could also join the Goa side as a mentor. He met the GCA officials last week and has promised the association of all 'help'.
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