For Rohan Handa, cricket has never been just about runs, wickets or results. It has been a lifelong passion, a vehicle for personal growth, and now a platform to help create opportunities for the next generation.
From playing street cricket as a six-year-old to becoming a finalist for Young Sportsperson of the Year at the Sporting Equals Awards, Rohan’s journey reflects resilience, determination and a commitment to making cricket more inclusive.
From street cricket to the county pathway
Like many young cricketers, Rohan’s love of the game started at home.
“My journey into cricket started when I was six. We lived in a cul-de-sac and used to use a lamp post as the wicket and bowled and batted out on the street with my dad. It was great fun.”
That enjoyment quickly developed into structured cricket when he joined Twyford Cricket Club. After just one season, he earned selection into the Hampshire County Performance Pathway before later moving to Hartley Wintney Cricket Club following a family relocation.
Throughout his development, Rohan looked to elite athletes for inspiration.
“On the field, my biggest influences have been Virat Kohli and Cristiano Ronaldo.”
Learning resilience
Like every aspiring cricketer, Rohan has faced setbacks.
For him, one of the greatest challenges has been consistently contributing to his team, but those experiences have helped shape both his character and his work ethic.
“I’ve learnt to persevere and be resilient over the years. I always give it everything in matches. I always train hard and prepare for games.”
That mindset has also influenced his style of play.
“I’m a team player who brings the X-factor. I play as an all-rounder, and both my spin bowling and batting have evolved over time.”
Cricket’s power to unite
Beyond competition, Rohan believes cricket has a unique ability to bring people together.
“Cricket is played and enjoyed all across the world and has the ability to break down barriers for diversity and inclusion. It brings communities together.”
It is a belief that has become central to his work away from the field.
Breaking down barriers
Rohan openly acknowledges that South Asian players remain underrepresented at professional and elite levels despite cricket’s popularity within many communities.
“It is known that South Asians are underrepresented at professional and elite cricket. There are many reasons, including access and cultural barriers. It has been difficult.”
Rather than simply highlighting the issue, he has taken action.
Working with New Young Blood, Rohan has launched the South Asian Talent Upskill and Mentoring Programme (STUMP), an initiative designed to support cricketers aged 8 to 18 as they progress from grassroots cricket towards county performance pathways.
“STUMP helps young South Asian cricketers bridge the gap between grassroots cricket and county performance pathways.”
The programme aims to provide mentoring, guidance and opportunities that many talented young players may otherwise struggle to access.
Building a more inclusive game
Rohan believes cricket is moving in the right direction but says there is still plenty of work to do.
“It’s starting to become more inclusive. Programmes like All Stars, Dynamos and Wicketz are making a difference, but there’s still work to be done to make cricket more accessible and inclusive.”
For him, representation matters.
“Everyone deserves an equal sporting opportunity to compete and follow their passions. Cricket is played globally and brings many people from different backgrounds together.”
He also believes athletes have an important responsibility to challenge discrimination.
“Speaking out about racism and inequality is very important. It’s unacceptable.”
He points to the ECB’s Raising the Game campaign as an example of positive action and encourages anyone experiencing discrimination to report incidents through the Cricket Regulator.
Supporting the next generation
Alongside initiatives like STUMP, Rohan is working with organisations including New Young Blood and strategic partners Grip Active Sports, Striide and 19 Yards to encourage greater participation among young people from diverse backgrounds.
While progress is being made, he believes more support is needed.
“There is work being done, but there needs to be more. We’re working to create greater awareness and encourage young players from diverse backgrounds to participate.”
Looking ahead, Rohan hopes to see significantly more players from diverse communities succeeding at the highest levels of domestic and professional cricket.
“There are several talented boys and girls who require advice and mentoring. Hopefully, STUMP will start to make a difference.”
Advice for young cricketers
Rohan’s message to aspiring players is refreshingly honest.
“Play and follow your passions. It’s OK to sometimes fail. Learn from mistakes and grow your cricket physically and mentally.”
His own motivation remains rooted in his lifelong love of the sport.
“I love cricket and sport. It has been an important part of me since I was a young boy. Developing my own game and helping other players is incredibly rewarding.”
Looking to the future
Rohan has ambitious goals, both personally and professionally.
“I want to train hard, coach others and reach the international stage. Playing cricket around the world in different leagues is the dream.”
But perhaps more importantly, he hopes his legacy extends beyond his own achievements.
“I want to be remembered as a top cricketer and someone who created change in cricket.”
By sharing his own experiences, mentoring young players and championing greater inclusion, Rohan is already helping shape the future of the game.
Reflecting on one of his proudest moments so far, he says:
“To be shortlisted as a finalist for Young Sportsperson of the Year at the Sporting Equals Awards was incredible.”
For Rohan Handa, cricket is more than a sport—it is an opportunity to inspire, to mentor and to ensure the next generation has every chance to succeed.
