Gorakhpur erupted in joy on February 22 as local hero Vishal Nishad stepped onto familiar soil for the first time after inking a deal with IPL giants Punjab Kings. The 30-lakh auction pick received a thunderous welcome, underscoring the IPL’s role as a launchpad for India’s cricket talents aiming for international glory.
The atmosphere was electric, with crowds lining the roads, drums beating, and garlands aplenty. Vishal, visibly moved, addressed the press: ‘Being part of Punjab Kings is a dream come true, but the love from my people here tops it all.’
Tracing his journey, he highlighted the grind behind the glamour. ‘Hard work morning and evening, always pushing limits to honor my roots and nation – that’s my mantra. This IPL contract is just the beginning.’ Interestingly, the bowler counts Virat Kohli as his ultimate inspiration, fueling his ambition to excel in the T20 spectacle.
He didn’t forget to thank Kalyan Singh, his pillar of strength who taught him life’s lessons and backed his cricketing pursuit. In a nod to youngsters, Vishal urged, ‘No shortcuts – grind hard in your field, be it sports or studies, and success will follow.’ With Punjab Kings gearing up, Vishal’s story adds fresh fuel to the IPL narrative of grassroots triumphs.