Gorakhpur has a new cricketing hero. Vishal Nishad, who once supported his family by accompanying his father for daily wage work, has earned a life-changing break after being picked by Kings XI Punjab for ₹30 lakh at the IPL auction. His selection has triggered celebrations not just in his home, but across his entire village.
A small village, a big dream
Hailing from Lahasdi village on the banks of the Rapti river, 21-year-old Vishal comes from a financially modest background. His father, Umesh Nishad, works as a mason, while his mother is a homemaker. Money was always tight, but Vishal’s passion for cricket never faded.
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There were days when he helped his father at construction sites and still made time for net practice. That discipline and persistence have now paid off in the biggest way possible.
Breakthrough came in UP T20 League
Vishal is a right-arm spinner who first caught attention during the recently concluded UP T20 League, where he played for Gorakhpur Lions. Competing alongside established names, he impressed with his control and variation.
In just three matches, Vishal picked up seven wickets, including the prized scalp of Nitish Rana. His deceptive bowling earned praise from experts and quickly put him on the radar of IPL scouts.
Trained under coach Durgesh Singh
A major pillar behind Vishal’s rise has been his coach and mentor, Durgesh Singh. Training under his guidance, Vishal sharpened both his skills and mindset. His family believes the combination of hard work, proper coaching, and faith played a crucial role in this breakthrough.
“Sometimes he would go to work with me, but he never skipped practice,” said his father. “Today, because of my son, our entire family feels proud.”
Village celebrates IPL selection
As news of the IPL selection spread, Lahasdi village erupted in joy. Neighbours distributed sweets, and locals gathered to celebrate the achievement of a boy many had seen growing up in difficult circumstances. For them, Vishal’s success feels personal.
‘Playing for India is my ultimate goal’
Speaking to the media, Vishal called his IPL selection just the beginning.
“My dream has always been to play for Team India. Getting into the IPL is the first big step,” he said.
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He also recalled learning valuable lessons from senior players like Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Nitish Rana, and Piyush Chawla during the UP T20 League. “I’ve learned a lot by watching and interacting with them. Whatever I am today is because of my parents, my coach, and my mentors.”
The road ahead
The IPL is a tough stage, but Vishal Nishad’s journey proves he knows how to fight odds. From construction sites to cricket stadiums, his story stands as a reminder that talent, when backed by grit and guidance, can break through any barrier.
For Gorakhpur, this is more than an IPL selection—it’s a moment of pride and a spark of hope for countless young dreamers.
