Over two decades ago, Omer Khan arrived in the UAE, and cricket paved the way for his new life. Formerly a national-level cricketer in India, Khan secured his first job in the shipping industry due to his skills as a left-handed opening batsman and right-arm off-spinner. The company not only hired him for their cricket team but also offered him a job.
Playing cricket in Dubai for a few years, Khan eventually left the sport to focus entirely on his work. However, his cricketing background sparked excitement when his daughter, Taabia Khan, displayed interest in the sport at the age of nine. Witnessing Taabia’s potential as a right-handed batter, Khan decided to make her the new cricket torchbearer of the family.
Despite initial cricket ambitions, Taabia’s interest shifted dramatically when she observed her mother playing badminton for fun. Intrigued by the racquet sport, Taabia, now 17, has become the world number two in mixed doubles in the BWF Junior World Rankings.
Having started badminton at the age of 10, Taabia secured three consecutive international titles in Uganda, Spain, and Cyprus. Currently ranked world number 10 in girls’ doubles, she attributes her success to years of hard work.
Taabia, a grade 12 student at the Indian Academy School in Dubai, dedicates seven hours daily to training at the Battledore Sports Academy under the guidance of head coach Alfaz Kalam. Despite inquiries about moving to India for training, she prefers Dubai’s atmosphere, praising the top-class coaches and facilities.
The UAE Badminton Federation’s decision to allow expats to represent the country in international events opened doors for players like Taabia. Reflecting on her experience playing against idols like Thinaah Muralitharan and Pearly Tan, she values the exposure gained at the senior Asian championships.
Taabia acknowledges her father’s understanding of an athlete’s psychology, providing crucial support after matches. Omer, who hails from a cricket family in India, initially faced resistance from relatives when his daughters chose badminton over cricket. However, he has successfully convinced them of his daughters’ wise choice, with both Taabia and her younger sister, Mysha Omer Khan, excelling in badminton.
Fully committed to his daughters’ badminton aspirations, Omer expresses a family dedication that prioritizes travel for badminton tournaments over vacations.
