SRINAGAR: Umar Ashraf, a deaf cricketer from Kashmir, has overcome immense challenges to represent India internationally. Born in Sultanpora Kandi, Baramulla, and now residing in Srinagar, Umar’s journey from a passionate young cricketer to an international athlete is a testament to his dedication and determination.
Umar’s cricketing passion began in his childhood. Despite his hearing impairment, he remained committed to the game, adapting to his circumstances with remarkable resilience. He graduated from Amar Singh College, Srinagar, and pursued cricket fervently.
In June 2024, Umar played a crucial role as a wicketkeeper-batsman for the Indian Deaf Cricket Team, which won a 7-match bilateral series against England 5-2. In the final T-20 International match at The County Ground, Leicester, Umar scored 56 runs off 38 balls, marking it as the greatest moment of his life.
Umar joined the district team in 2006 and regularly represented Jammu and Kashmir in national championships. In 2014, he played in the Dosti Cup against Pakistan and participated in events in the UAE in 2015.
Umar has represented Jammu and Kashmir in various national tournaments and was selected for India’s international competitions after trials in New Delhi. His achievements inspire many, proving that physical limitations do not define one’s potential.
Among his career highlights, Umar recalls his 2016 match against Pakistan’s U-19 deaf team in Dubai, scoring 59 runs, and the 2017 Asia Cup final win against Sri Lanka. He has taken 39 international stumps and admires Virat Kohli’s technique and determination. Umar received the Jammu and Kashmir Government Award for Sportspersons in 2019 and has been honoured by various sports bodies and officials. He is a member of the Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), the governing body for deaf cricket in India.