I have been playing cricket since childhood. I got into it through my father, who came to England from Pakistan in the 60s. They’re mad about the sport over there – it’s like a religion – but my dad was from a poor background, so he actually got his passion for cricket from this country, before passing it on to me. I have a lot to thank him for.
Cricket has a reputation for being complicated, but it comes down to two sides each trying to out-score the other. While one team bats and attempts to score runs, the other fields and tries to get them out. I play one-day cricket, where each team typically has 50 overs (each made up of six balls delivered by the bowler) to get as high a score as it can. A match can last anywhere between four and seven hours, but it’s not boring: you’re always engaged.
By the time you get home you’re shattered. When I was in my 20s I could have a game, then play football the next day, but it takes a lot out of me now, especially in my hamstrings from all the running, and my lower back from batting. I’m an opening batsman, which is a role that carries a lot of responsibility – you don’t want to get out on your first ball and let your team-mates down. But the feeling you get when you hit a good shot is just amazing. If I’ve had a good innings, I’ll lie in bed that night and replay it all in my head.
Cricket balls are rock hard and they come at you pretty quickly – up to 80mph. At that speed, you have to play on instinct. I’ve been hit many times, but I never wince. Any sign of weakness, and the opponent will capitalise on it.
There are so many things I love about cricket: the camaraderie, the buzz of scoring runs, and the fact it keeps me fit. But also the whole ritual around it, from having tea together to taking in the boundary markings after the game. And the best thing? You never play when it’s really cold. When the summer comes around and the cricket season starts, it’s just a happy, happy time.
My weekend workout
How often do you play? Only on Saturdays, but I also coach the juniors three times a week.
Most runs scored? 140 in one 50-over game.
Favourite tea-time snack? A tuna sandwich.
Five ways to get started: cricket
1 While there are versions of the game that last up to five days, others can be as short as 45 minutes, so however much time you are able to commit, there’s a version of cricket for you.
2 In terms of diversity and inclusivity, the sport has come a long way from its public school past. The cost of the equipment, however – from bats and helmets to whites (ie, clothing) and specialist shoes – can rack up, though many clubs will be able to lend this to beginners.
3 Cricket welcomes new players of any age, gender, capability or experience. To find the best fit for you – anywhere in the UK – visit the England and Wales Cricket Board’s website.
4 To hold the bat correctly, place your dominant hand nearer the bottom of the handle and your other hand nearer the top, ensuring the two v-shapes formed between your thumbs and forefingers are lined up with each other and the centre of the back of the bat.
5 When striking the ball, keep your chin tucked into your shoulder, your eyes level and your head still.
Essential kit
Do you have a passion for exercise? Send your story to fitness@theguardian.com
