Hasim Ansari first came into limelight as Nepal U-19 cricketer in 2012. Often regarded as one of the golden generation of U-19 cricketers, most of the team members went on to play for Nepal. Ansari also impressed then Coach Pubudu Dassanayake. He was renowned for playing according to the situation and take it deep in the innings. His 36 runs against England in the U-19 World Cup was highlight of the tour.

The right-handed batter’s best came for domestic state side Province 2 in 2017. Hasim lifted his team from 104-8 in 32.3 overs to a fighting total of 187 in 48.3 overs. He shared a partnership of 83 runs for the ninth wicket with Rashid Khan before losing his wicket in the 49th over. Ansari smashed a 124-ball 101 which included 12 fours and a six. His was not able to avert the loss but he stamped his authority as a seasoned veteran for his state side. It was the only century of the group stage during the inaugural edition of Prime Minister Cup.

Hasim is set to play for Chitwan Tigers in the upcoming season of Everest Premier League.

As Hasim remembers:

I fondly remember starting with a plastic ball. It was just a hobby for me imitating my seniors. Once in 2001, I was asked to make numbers during one of my school matches. I played well and was selected to represent my school during a local tournament. It was a tennis ball tournament.

Then CAN vice-president Mr TB Shah was impressed by my cricket. He asked Umesh Sir, my coach then, about my whereabouts. Shah personally encouraged me to seriously take cricket as a profession. He was the first man to realize me the dream to play for Nepal.

During U-17 selection, it was first time I was playing with leather ball. I got a hit on my chest. It affected me and my family that I had to leave cricket for a year. Let’s say a career in cricket was far from possible. Then Umesh sir again motivated me to not get sacred and learn cricket the right way. Dawood Ansari, still current CAN member, helped me gradually transition into state cricket.

After a year, I was first selected as a wicketkeeper batsman for U-17 camp. Gyanendra Malla was captain. Then, Sushil Chaugai proposed my name as a good player to Binod Das. He further helped me to understand cricket. He believed I can be a good batsman for Nepal team. He was an idol for me.

Similarly, Umesh sir always pushed me to play for Nepal. When I was selected for the team in 2012, U-19 World Cup in Australia, he was the first one to congratulate me. He always reminded me that I am a talented player and I shouldn’t waste it. I was known for playing pace bowling well.

I was sidelined many times for different reasons throughout my career. I have been called up for camp so many times but failed to make it to the final team. I have seen rejections. It helped me grow strong mentally. I understand the crest and trough of highs and lows.

I’m thankful to Chitwan Tigers for rejuvenating my love for cricket. I will try everything in my powers to do well for Tigers.