Rousing welcome for Arshdeep Singh

Deepankar Sharda

Chandigarh, July 6

It was like revisiting the past for Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh, who returned today after India’s T20 World Cup victory. The only difference being it was an unexpected welcome this time — a large number of fans and his family all danced to the beats of dhols to welcome their hero.

There were a handful of fans to welcome Arshdeep when he returned after India’s victory in the U-19 World Cup in 2018.

Today, Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport witnessed almost a stampede-like situation as a number of people turned up to welcome the left arm seamer, who took the highest wickets in the T20 World Cup. The wait for his arrival was finally over at 7 pm when a shy Arshdeep came out the arrival doors smiling at his family members. Soon, he was secured in a ring by security personnel. It, however, failed to stop fans from trying to get close to him to click selfies and take autographs. Analogous to his shy nature, he kept up his smile, waved at a few fans and sat in an open Jeep, which was specially arranged for his victory procession from the airport to his home in Kharar. He, along with his family and coach, visited the Phase 11 gurdwara before reaching his Kharar-based residence.

Covered with garlands, Arshdeep said the World Cup victory was a dream come true. “It’s always amazing to be back home, but this time it’s unbelievable. Everyone is asking me about the gold medal, autographs and pictures. I didn’t expect such a response from the fans,” said Arshdeep, while moving towards his convoy. “I am happy to contribute my best for the country,” he added. His father Darshan Singh remembered his graduation days, when the Indian team won the 1983 World Cup and he was wondering about their rousing welcome to India. “I had never thought that one day I would be welcoming my son in the same way,” said Darshan, who, along with his wife and daughter, had remained with Arshdeep throughout the World Cup.

When asked about his plan to pamper Arshdeep, an elated Darshan said, “It will be home-cooked food for him.”

Holding Arshdeep in his arms amid a chaotic gathering of fans, his coach Jaswant Rai said: “I have seen him coming on a bicycle to the training ground, and today, I am witnessing a convoy of vehicles awaiting his arrival. It’s the most proud moment for a coach.”