From field to fitness: Here’s how this budding cricketer from Apeejay, Nerul is acing the sport  

14-year old Alina Farid Mulla started with her cricket training two years ago. Recently, the young player from Apeejay School, Nerul played at Azad Maidan, Bhosale Cricket Academy in Mumbai as an opening batsman. At the match, she scored an impressive 119 runs in 109 balls, and was declared the ‘Player of the Match.’ In an interview, the budding cricketer shares more about her practice schedule and interest in cricket. Read on:

How did you become interested in the sport?

I started training for it professionally two years ago. Since then, there has been no looking back. I am currently being coached by Mr. Jalal Shaikh at Nerul Gymkhana Cricket Academy. I am an opening batsman at the sport. I can bowl as well but I prefer to bat.

Do you want to pursue cricket as a profession?

Yes, definitely. I would like to give the sport a chance and give my best at it. I also aspire to represent my country in the future.

Your role models?

Rohit Sharma and Smriti Mandhana. I admire their game a lot .

Your preferred format of cricket?

Day/night matches.

Do you feel that cricket is a man’s sport?

No, not at all. Women are breaking barriers in this game. Young girls like me are working hard to shine at the game. With more and more strong support from the nation and their families, girls will achieve new heights in cricket.

What does your practice schedule look like?

I am at the field from 10am to 6pm. Yes, I invest 8 to 9 hours daily in my training. My target is to play 1000 balls each day. In addition to my practice, I maintain my fitness by jogging, running and doing pull-ups, push-ups, squats, and so on. Plus, I follow a strict diet as advised by my trainer.    

Given the dietary precautions, don’t you have food cravings?

Rarely! I am a non-vegetarian and so, sometimes I feel like having non-veg dishes. But that gets covered up in the meals that are a part of my diet. The best thing is I am not a fan of pizza and pasta and so this helps me from not consuming junk food.

How has Apeejay School, Nerul helped you for your cricket journey?

I am very thankful to the school, My teachers and Principal sir for allowing me to take time off from my school to practice for the sport. It’s because of their understanding I am able to manage my time well and maintain academic consistency along with being a cricketer.

What is a player’s greatest learning in cricket?

Sports teaches a person how to fight and win. Hard work and focus are necessary in cricket.

TO WATCH Alina play, click below: