Brothers in cricket: A unique tale of rivalry & unity

KATHMANDU: Mohammad Salam Sheikh and Sama Praveen, residents of Murali Naya Tole in Birgunj Metropolitan City-12, hold a rare distinction.

Their sons, Aasif Sheikh and Aarif Sheikh, played pivotal roles in the inaugural Nepal Premier League (NPL) final – one emerging as a champion with Janakpur Bolts and the other as a runner-up with Sudurpaschim Royals.

The final, held on Saturday at Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, saw the brothers face off for the title.

Aasif represented Janakpur Bolts, while Aarif played for Sudurpaschim Royals. This unique sibling rivalry also extended to their parents, who became ardent supporters of opposing teams. Mohammad cheered for Aasif’s Janakpur Bolts, while Sama backed Aarif’s Sudurpaschim Royals.

“I always wished for both teams to reach the finals since my sons were playing for different sides,” shared Mohammad. “It was inevitable that one would win and the other would lose, so we had to pick sides. Still, seeing them both in the finals was a moment of immense pride.”

While Mohammad appeared jubilant after the match, Sama expressed mixed emotions. “I wanted both my sons to win, but rules dictated otherwise,” she said. “Since my husband supported Janakpur, I rooted for Sudurpaschim.”

The Match and the Rivalry at Home

Sudurpaschim Royals batted first, scoring 184 runs for nine wickets in 20 overs. Sama remained confident of their victory until Janakpur Bolts staged a remarkable comeback, chasing the target with five wickets to spare in 19.2 overs.

Aasif played a critical role, scoring 33 runs off 19 balls with four boundaries and two sixes, leading Janakpur to triumph.

Aarif, however, managed only one run off three balls in the final, falling short of expectations.

At their Birgunj residence, the contrasting emotions mirrored the on-field drama. While Sama lauded Sudurpaschim’s initial performance, she gracefully accepted the outcome. “Regardless of who won, it was a victory for Nepali cricket,” she said.

Aasif and Aarif’s younger sister, Muskan Praveen, diplomatically supported both teams. “For me, both my brothers are equal. I’m proud of their hard work and determination,” she said.

The Journey to the Top

Mohammad reminisced about the struggles and sacrifices made to nurture his sons’ cricketing careers. “I made sure to support them at every step, attending their matches and providing them with the necessary equipment,” he shared.

Aarif, an established all-rounder in Nepal’s national cricket team, began his journey at Birgunj’s Narayani Cricket Ground. Over the years, he progressed from playing in local tournaments to becoming a reliable player for Nepal. Known for his lower middle-order batting, Aarif was signed by Sudurpaschim Royals for Rs 1.5 million in the NPL auction.

Asif, his younger brother, was acquired by Janakpur Bolts for Rs 2 million. He rose to the challenge of captaincy after Janakpur’s skipper, Anil Sah, was injured. Despite struggling in earlier matches, Asif’s performance in the final proved decisive.

A Family’s Vision for Nepali Cricket

For Mohammad, seeing his sons play at the highest level of Nepali cricket is a dream come true. “I encouraged them to pursue their passion despite limited resources,” he said. His ultimate wish is to witness Nepal lift a Cricket World Cup trophy.

Sama highlighted the challenges faced by Nepali cricketers. “The current state doesn’t allow players to sustain themselves solely through cricket,” she lamented. “If this improves, it will attract more talent to the sport.”

The Sheikh family’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and unity amidst rivalry, reflecting the growing stature of cricket in Nepal.

Their journey inspires many, proving that dedication and family support can pave the way for greatness.