Shaik Rasheed’s family savours his success

VISAKHAPATNAM: For Shaik Balishavali, who had to shift base to Guntur and change jobs to keep his son Shaik Rasheed’s cricket career alive, it was a moment to savour and cherish as the India under-19 vice-captain justified the faith on Wednesday.The Guntur lad came into bat at No. 3 with India tottering at 37 for two and along with skipper Yash Dhull, laid the foundation for the 96-run win over Australia in the semifinal of the ICC U-19 World Cup in Antigua. Rasheed was unfortunate to miss his century but his 94 and the 204-run partnership for the third wicket with Dhull took India to the confines of 290 for five. “It looked like he was in a hurry to reach his century. It’s unlike of him to get tense but that seems to have resulted in his dismissal. I’m sure he won’t repeat that mistake again,” an elated Balishavali told TOI on Thursday.It was a view echoed by Rasheed when he called the family on Thursday evening. Balishavali recalled the phone conversation. “My focus was to get quick runs for the team, not my century. I was looking to play the cut. The ball ricocheted off my boot. I hope not to make that mistake in the final against England.” The final is slated for Saturday but for Rasheed’s mother Jyothi, watching her son on TV was an experience that cannot be explained. “She was thrilled to see Rasheed bat for more than two hours. So excited was she that she didn’t move from her place till he was dismissed. It’s an experience we can’t explain,” Balishavali said and added that they hoped Rasheed will have a good outing in the final and bring the World Cup to India.Rasheed's elder brother Shaik Riaz also hoped his brother’s good run will continue. “I’m sure he’ll contribute in the final too.” Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) director of cricket operations and former India player Y Venugopala Rao said it was a proud moment for Andhra people. Having been part of the India U-19 team that won the Cup for the first time in 2000, Venu knows the winning feeling. “He’s a consistent performer and I’m sure he’ll make amends in the final,” Venu said.Rasheed’s coach J Krishna Rao was all praise for the manner in which his ward did not let Covid-19 affect his performance. “He’s mentally very tough and his cricket sense is very good. I hope he comes good in the final too.”