Living his dream is journeyman cricketer Cheema

Canadian all-rounder Rizwan Cheema has traveled miles,across three countries,to finally reach his dream destination.

Canadian all-rounder Rizwan Cheema has traveled miles,across three countries,to finally reach his dream destination. Born in Pakistan,Cheema moved to the USA as a 20-year-old but eventually settled in Canada. All through his arduous journey,the 32-year-old never lost sight of playing top-level cricket. And as he rubs shoulders with the best in the business during the World Cup,Cheema has a deep sense of satisfaction.

Cheema spent the first 20 years of his life in Pakistan immersed in the game although he struggled to make a mark. But once he moved to the USA,where his sister had settled,things changed. While finding his way in an alien land,Cheema used his spare time on the cricket field. His talent shone through and he was able to play in local leagues.

But Cheemas time had not yet come. Just as he managed to break into the USAs top league,three years after he had stepped into the foreign land,9/11 happened. As incidents of racism and violence towards the South Asian community increased,Cheema moved to neighboring Canada.

Migration meant that Cheema had to wait for a few years before he could earn the Maple leaf cap. He took up a job of a taxi driver. It was the best job for a person who was obsessed with cricket. I used to plan things as to how I could take out time to play. And on some days I would skip my job and only concentrate on cricket. Although it cost me financially,I was satisfied, adds Cheema who finally made his international debut in 2008 aged 30.

Besides being a senior member of the present side,Cheema is also one of its key players as his two wicket haul against Pakistan and quickfire half century in a warm-up match will attest. Sharing the dressing room with teenagers,he is consistently keeping an eye on their performance. I am not a coach but I can certainly advise youngsters and guide them, he says.

Cheema isnt unhappy about the way his life has played out. I came to Canada and now I am representing the country in an ICC tournament. It is a dream come true for me.