“30 Years of Dedication and Merit Dismissed: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Only International Level Cricket Coach Faces Unemployment”

“30 Years of Dedication and Merit Dismissed: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Only International Level Cricket Coach Faces Unemployment”

Musarrat Ullah Jan

In a disheartening turn of events, Irfan Babu, the only international level coach of Moazullah Khan Cricket Academy, faces unemployment after being dismissed as a Daily Wage coach. With an impressive coaching career that spans three decades, Irfan Babu has trained numerous national and international cricketers, making significant contributions to the sport.

Having started his coaching journey in 1993, Irfan Babu demonstrated unparalleled dedication, and his expertise quickly earned him a position at Moazullah Khan Cricket Academy City Branch. His coaching prowess led his teams to defeat first-class international level teams, gaining recognition and accolades.

Irfan Babu’s coaching journey has not been limited to men’s cricket; he also played a crucial role in shaping the future of women’s cricket. Serving as the selectors and coach of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s first female team from 2000 to 2005, he nurtured talents like Nabila Gulzar, Hajarra, and Farzana Ehsan.

However, despite his remarkable achievements and the international recognition brought to the Pakistani cricket team by his students, Irfan Babu finds himself without a permanent position. His principled coaching style, which includes refraining from flattery and foul language, appears to be a hindrance in a field where such behavior seems to gain favor.

The cricket community is left questioning the fairness of the system as an experienced and highly talented coach like Irfan Babu faces unemployment while others with less merit reach higher positions. The responsibility now lies with the provincial sports directorate and cricket officials to take action and ensure that merit and dedication are given due recognition.

The future of cricket coaching in the region hangs in the balance. If such experienced and principled coaches as Irfan Babu are overlooked, it may discourage aspiring coaches from entering the field, and the sport may suffer in the long run. It’s time for the cricket community to rally behind #SaveIrfanBabu and uphold the values of merit and dedication in coaching.