In the heart of Mumbai’s cricketing landscape, a rising star is carving out a remarkable journey against all odds. Meet Harshal Jadhav, a 22-year-old batter whose humble background and hearing loss haven’t dimmed the shine of his cricketing dreams. Despite the challenges he faces, Jadhav’s stellar performances have earned him the position of vice-captain for the Mumbai Under-23 team, a testament to his unwavering determination.
Harshal Jadhav’s hearing impairment, rather than being a hindrance, has become his strength. Coaches marvel at his exceptional power of concentration, evident in his consistent and impressive scores. As a recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was honored with the Player of the Tournament and Best Batter awards at the esteemed Police Shield Cricket Tournament, capping off a remarkable 2023.
Harshal Jadhav standout performance came in the Under-23 selection tournament, the Shalini Bhalekar Cricket Tournament, where he emerged as the highest run-scorer, amassing 498 runs, including three centuries and a double hundred. Despite communication challenges, Mumbai senior selectors were so impressed with his approach and on-field prowess that he was entrusted with the captaincy of one of the sides before being named vice-captain of the Mumbai Under-23 team.
Playing with a hearing aid, Harshal Jadhav cricketing prowess shines through. In the Police Shield final against Victory Cricket Club, he played a crucial role in New Hind’s comeback win, contributing a quickfire 61 runs off 34 balls. Over the course of five matches in the tournament, he scored 332 runs and took 13 wickets, showcasing his all-round abilities.
Reflecting on his journey, Harshal Jadhav shared to Hindustan Times, “I suffered a serious illness when I was four and lost my hearing power. I need to wear hearing aids in both ears but while playing I wear only in one ear. By observing the lips, I understand what the other person is trying to say.”
Harshal Jadhav: Force to reckon
Despite the challenges, Jadhav’s speed and agility have made him a force to be reckoned with on the field. Harshal Jadhav communication strategy while batting involves observing his partner’s reactions, relying on his excellent speed to confidently navigate between the wickets.
Sachin Koli, Jadhav’s coach at New Hind club, acknowledges his exceptional concentration and fielding skills. “His concentration is amazing; because he can’t communicate much there is no distraction. He is an exceptional fielder who pulls off stunning catches at gully, backward point and easily saves 20-30 runs,” says Koli, emphasizing Jadhav’s all-round abilities.
With an eye-catching performance, Jadhav’s journey is far from over. Despite limited captaincy experience, he is eager to take on more responsibilities. “I don’t have much captaincy experience but I’m trying to do it,” Jadhav says.
Coming from a modest background, Jadhav’s aspirations extend beyond personal glory. His motivation is to make a significant impact in the sport, not only for himself but to support his family.
Hailing from a background where his father works in the streetlight maintenance section of the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport (BEST), Harshal Jadhav is driven by the desire to bring recognition and success to his family through his cricketing achievements.
“It felt very good to get these awards. If I do well, I will get noticed and it will be good for our family,” says Jadhav, encapsulating the spirit of resilience and determination that defines his cricketing journey.
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