Bowling Against the Batsman called Life.

At The Wishing Factory, we often speak of resilience. But sometimes, a story outside our community mirrors the spirit of our Warriors so closely that it deserves to be celebrated among us.

Today, we look at Akash Deep, India’s rising cricket star, not just for his 10-wicket haul that stunned England, but for the unshakable spirit behind those wickets — a spirit that resonates deeply with every Thalassemia Warrior.

While the world saw a cricketer dominate on the field, few knew that off the pitch, Akash was navigating personal storms. First losing his Father, Brother, Sister-in-law, and Aunt; and now his sister, diagnosed with stage three colon cancer earlier this year. Despite his demanding cricket schedule, Akash made it a point to visit her every single day after practice — quietly carrying the emotional burden while still chasing greatness with the ball in hand.

As he said after his unforgettable performance:  “Every time I had the ball in my hand, her thoughts would cross my mind.”

This isn’t just about cricket. It’s about the strength of the human spirit, and the drive to move forward despite life’s harshest trials.

Just like Akash Deep, our Thalassemia Warriors face medical challenges, emotional trials, and life-altering obstacles — but they continue to show up, to fight, to smile, and to dream.

Let Akash’s story remind us that even when life throws its toughest deliveries, with courage and focus, we can hit back harder. Our Warriors may not all be on a cricket field, but every hospital visit, every blood transfusion, every academic or creative milestone — they are all victories.

So here’s to Bowling Against the Batsman called Life and coming out stronger — just like Akash Deep.

To our Warriors: You are seen, you are celebrated, and you are never alone.

-Rajesh Thakur.