Fardeen Kazi Exclusive: Tiigers of Kolkata star 'feels surreal' with Life-Changing ISPL

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Fardeen Kazi, one of the most exciting players in the ISPL, has truly announced himself this season with a match-winning performance.

The Tiigers of Kolkata batter played a sublime knock of 61 runs in the last match against Chennai Singams, helping the defending champions to win their first match of the season.

His incredible innings in the last game, where he helped chase down 22 runs in the final over, was nothing short of spectacular, thus announcing Fardeen at the biggest stage of tennis ball cricket. MyKhel caught up with him to talk about his journey, challenges, and what ISPL has meant to him.

A Proper Announcement on the Big Stage

Despite performing well last season, Kazi believes that his real moment came in this game.

"Last year, I had one good match, but I didn't perform consistently. This season, I failed in three matches, so this performance was crucial for me and the team," he admitted.

Talking about his thrilling final over, Kazi broke down the strategy he and Bhavesh had planned.

"Our plan was simple - hit a six in the first three balls, and then we'd need just two more sixes in the final three balls. Luckily, I managed to connect on the first ball, making the equation easier. Then, we executed exactly as planned and sealed the win on the last ball."

A Transformative Journey with ISPL

For Kazi, ISPL has been life-changing, which has helped him to grow as a player and as a human being.

"Before ISPL, tennis ball cricket wasn't recognized as a legitimate career option. Many talented players weren't taken seriously. But with ISPL's platform, everything has changed. Families now encourage youngsters to play, knowing that a good performance could lead to something bigger," he explained.

Kazi, who hails from Mumbai, talked about how the exposure has made a significant impact on his life.

"Earlier, people would say, 'Oh, he plays tennis ball cricket.' Now, the recognition is on another level. Fans stop me on the streets, they message me, and they genuinely care about my performance. It feels surreal."

Fan and Family Support

Acknowledging the unwavering support from his fans, Kazi expressed deep gratitude.

"Even when I wasn't performing, fans kept sending me messages, asking me to score runs. Their belief in me feels like my own parents pushing me to do better. After my last performance, the love has multiplied. Fans make us feel like we're playing for something bigger than ourselves."

Looking Ahead: Match-by-Match Approach

With six matches remaining, Kazi is focused on keeping the momentum going. And the young tennis ball player from Mumbai hopes to carry his team forward in the coming matches.

"Of course, we have our eyes on the playoffs. But the only way to get there is by winning one game at a time. That's our approach now - take every match as it comes and give our best."

As one of the most promising players in ISPL, Kazi's journey is just beginning. With his talent, determination, and growing fanbase, the future looks bright for him.