Mumbai Test: Haseeb Hameed's family cheer for England at Wankhede

Haseeb Hameed (second from left) watches England play in the fourth Test along with his brother Nauman (left) and other family members at the Wankhede Stadium yesterday. Pic/Subodh Mayure

Haseeb Hameed (second from left) watches England play in the fourth Test along with his brother Nauman (left) and other family members at the Wankhede Stadium yesterday. Pic/Subodh Mayure

To hail from a strong sporting background and have an elder brother who played at a good level certainly helps the younger sibling pick up valuable tips. Teenage England opener Haseeb Hameed also has benefited from his brothers who groomed him.

Hameed, who returned from England after surgery on his injured finger to witness his side battle it out in the fourth Test at the Wankhede yesterday, told mid-day that his brothers Nauman and Safwaan taught him to think about the mental aspect of the game. "They have played cricket and have performed well too. They know how to play this game.

My father has been my coach since I was a child, so all of them played a massive role in my cricket. Off the field too, my sisters have helped me relax at the right time and have taken care of me. I am very lucky to be part of a sports family," said Hameed, who watched the game along with his family members from the Wankhede's Grand Stand, situated just above England's dressing room.

Hameed misses the dressing room atmosphere. "I have mixed emotions, but obviously I am very happy to see England off to a very good start, thanks to Keaton (Jennings) and Alastair Cook. I too wanted to be in the middle, something which I am missing the most. I am missing the dressing room atmosphere a lot," said the 19-year-old Hameed.

"When I was at the crease, it was difficult to understand the mentality and expectations from the crowd. But whatever time I have spent today in the stands taught me something. It's really difficult to understand the crowd, but by watching the game I tried to learn a few things as well," he added.

Elaborating about the injury and his decision to come back, Hameed said: "It's disappointing to leave the tour in that fashion. The injury ended my series. It's unfortunate, but I am a believer that what happens, happens for the best. I have no doubt that this injury will make me much stronger."

"We (Hameed and his family) spoke what would be the best plan of action after the surgery is complete. So we decided to enjoy some cricket and have fun. I was looking forward to see how the series goes. I wish the side good luck in this Test and hope they level the series," Hameed concluded.