From Ball Boy to Rising Star: PCB rewards Lahore ball boy for stunner catch at Gaddafi Stadium

From Ball Boy to Rising Star: 

PCB rewards Lahore ball boy for stunner catch at Gaddafi Stadium

By Nawaz Gohar ; During the fifth match of the ODI tri-series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, a young ball boy captured the hearts of millions and stunned commentators worldwide by pulling off a breathtaking, blindfolded, one-handed catch outside the boundary.

The incident occurred during the fourth over of Sri Lanka's innings when Sri Lankan batter Kamindu Mendis launched a powerful delivery from Pakistani pace spearhead Naseem Shah over the boundary.

As the ball soared toward the advertising boards, a young ball boy stationed near the fence reacted instinctively, plucking the ball out of the air with a stunning one-handed grab without even looking at it. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officially shared the footage of the moment on social media, sending the video viral overnight and earning global praise for the youngster.

The ball boy was identified as Adnan, a young resident of Lahore. Working at a local hotel to support his family after the passing of his father, Adnan's life is a testament to resilience.

Despite being a talented all-rounder who regularly practices at a local club, financial hardships had previously forced him to abandon his dreams of professional cricket training. On the day of the match, he had taken leave from his hotel job simply to work as a ball boy.

Following the widespread viral success of the video, the PCB invited Adnan to a special meeting to commend his remarkable athleticism. In an inspiring move to help him realize his cricketing aspirations, the PCB announced a cash prize of 400,000 rupees, alongside free admission and professional training at the PCB Cricket Academy.