Shopian: In a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir, Shopian’s Waseem Ahmad Bakshi has been selected for the Indian Para Cricket Team, marking a significant achievement for the young sportsperson from Drangnar village in the district.
Waseem, son of labourer Mohammad Sadiq Bakshi of Cheki Diaroo, Drangnar, met Deputy Commissioner Shopian Shishir Gupta at the Mini Secretariat following his selection to the national team.
Congratulating Waseem on his achievement, the Deputy Commissioner said his success would inspire many young people to pursue sports with dedication and determination.
Waseem’s journey to the national team is the result of years of hard work, perseverance and commitment. Since 2021, he has consistently represented Jammu and Kashmir in national-level para cricket competitions and emerged as one of the region’s leading para cricketers.
His impressive performances over the years have now earned him an opportunity to represent India in upcoming international para cricket tournaments.
Apart from cricket, Waseem has also excelled in athletics. He recently represented Jammu and Kashmir in the 24th National Para Athletics Championship 2026 held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, where he was the lone participant from Kashmir.
Earlier, he won two bronze medals at a major sporting event in Uttarakhand. In 2023, he secured a gold medal in the 100-metre race at the Vyom Apple Fest and has also won more than six medals at the inter-college level.
Waseem’s rise from a remote village in Shopian to the Indian Para Cricket Team has been hailed as a story of resilience and determination. His achievement serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the region, particularly persons with disabilities, demonstrating that dedication and perseverance can overcome even the toughest challenges.
