Meeting difficulties: Rahul Singh (left) and Swapnil Singh. Picture by Srinivas

Jamshedpur, Feb. 21: Swapnil Singh and Rahul Singh recount a story of confidence and cricket that filmmakers would feel worthy of a drama on celluloid.

For the duo, both under 20, cricket came first. So, when they felt that their dreams to play for Team India may die a young death in Bihar, they travelled to Jharkhand.

The non-affiliation of the Bihar cricket body to Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) bothered the two talented youths.

So, Swapnil (19) and Rahul (16), both medium-pacers, headed to Jharkhand.

While Swapnil hails from Sihota Bangra village in Bihar’s Siwan district, Rahul has his roots in Gaya. Both boys have enrolled themselves with the local Jamshedpur School of Cricket (JSC).

They have also rented a small room in Mango. “We cook and wash our clothes, besides keeping our room tidy. We help each other out, as this is our struggling phase,” says Rahul proudly. Swapnil adds: “My parents believed that cricket was a waste of time and I should concentrate on my studies instead. My father, a small businessman, wanted me to help him out in the business. But I dreamt of becoming a cricketer.”

Rahul, whose parents are settled at Dhansir in Gaya , spent some time at Japla in Palamau, where his uncles reside, before coming here.

“I see no future back home, as far as cricket is concerned. Nothing can improve till our cricket body is recognised by the Board,” he added.

Both have been trying hard to make their presence felt. “I will attend selection trials conducted by the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) and try for a slot in the state junior team. My objective is to play in the domestic tournaments organised by the BCCI,” Rahul said.

Swapnil echoes his wishes. Both have joined local B-division clubs but confessed that they are facing a tough time in an alien place.

“It’s a new place and we don’t have many acquaintances. But, we have faith in ourselves and hope to ride over the crisis,” Rahul said, confidence writ large on his face.