Gayaji: Shoaib Khan, a cricketer from Bihar’s Gayaji district who now represents the UAE in international cricket after earlier playing for Oman, has returned home to a warm public reception amid renewed discussion over opportunities for players from smaller regions.
A large crowd gathered at Gayaji Airport to welcome the cricketer following his recent appearances in international tournaments. Local leaders, including Tikari MLA Ajay Dangi, were present during the reception.
Shoaib’s father, Adeeq Khan, said his son had been forced to look abroad after failing to secure opportunities in Bihar’s domestic cricket structure.
“If my son had received an opportunity in Bihar, why would he have gone abroad?” he said.
Journey From Gayaji to International Cricket
Shoaib Khan comes from Kothi village in Imamganj block of Gayaji district, an area historically affected by Naxalite violence. His father, a farmer, supported his cricket ambitions from an early age and reportedly converted part of the family’s farmland into a practice ground.
The family later moved to Hamzapur in Sherghati following security concerns in their native village. Shoaib completed his early education there before moving to Delhi for higher studies.
While studying at Jamia Millia Islamia, he continued playing cricket and eventually captained the university team.
Bihar Ranji Rejection
According to Shoaib, a turning point came in 2019 when he attended trials for the Bihar Ranji team but was not selected despite strong performances.
He said the rejection left him demoralised and close to abandoning cricket altogether. During the Covid-19 pandemic, however, he continued training and improving his game.
“I encountered challenges at every step, but I kept telling myself to move forward,” Shoaib said.
Friends and teammates later encouraged him to explore opportunities overseas.
Rise in Oman Cricket
In 2021, Shoaib moved to Oman, where he began playing domestic cricket and soon earned selection to the national side.
He made his ODI debut for Oman national cricket team against Nepal in September 2021 and later debuted in T20 internationals in February 2022.
During the UAE Tri-Nation Series in March 2022, he scored an unbeaten 105 in ODI cricket, a performance that strengthened his place in the squad.
He was later included in Oman’s squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2024, where he featured in matches against teams including Australia national cricket team and England cricket team.
Transition to UAE Cricket
Shoaib later moved into the UAE cricket setup after attracting attention with consistent performances in international cricket.
He represented the United Arab Emirates national cricket team in 2025 and went on to score half-centuries against Canada and Afghanistan in T20 competition.
“I may be playing abroad, but India’s name is also being recognised,” Shoaib said. “That is my biggest achievement.”
Family Speaks of Hardship
Shoaib’s uncle, Bollywood actor Ali Khan, accompanied him during the airport reception and spoke about the struggles behind the cricketer’s rise.
He said the family had endured severe financial hardship during Shoaib’s early years in cricket.
“People see his success today, but only the family knows the difficulties he faced,” Ali Khan said.
Debate Over Recognition
Shoaib’s father said the Bihar government had honoured players such as Ishan Kishan and Vaibhav Suryavanshi, and argued that Shoaib also deserved recognition as a player from Bihar despite representing another country.
The case has also reignited discussion over Indian-origin cricketers who have represented foreign national teams after limited opportunities at home.
Among prominent names are Nasser Hussain, Monty Panesar, Hashim Amla, Keshav Maharaj and Rachin Ravindra, among others.
