My life is all about cricket, says Parvez Rasool

Very rarely does a cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir hit the headlines, given the poor infrastructure for the game in the state. But J&K skipper Parvez Rasool stands out, and how!
The 24-year-old all-rounder has been on the radar of national selectors for a while, thanks to his impressive performances in domestic cricket.
Last year, he became the first J&K cricketer to bag an IPL contract and was even picked for the Indian ODI team that toured Zimbabwe.In Vadodara to play in the Ranji Trophy quarterfinal against Punjab (Rasool got the man-of-the-match award for his brilliant hundred and five wicket haul, but his team lost), he says, "I love coming to Gujarat because the people here are very hospitable. It feels like second home." Excerpts from a chat:
You carry J&K's cricketing hopes on your young shoulders. How do you cope with the pressure of expectations?
I am a fighter by birth and it doesn't affect me too much. Everyone knows that the infrastructure and facilities for cricket aren't that great in Jammu and Kashmir and dealing with adverse situations comes naturally to us. For cricketers in my state, who haven't got IPL/international exposure till date, playing in Ranji Trophy and other domestic games is as big as playing in the World Cup! That explains our hunger for success and reaching the quarterfinal this year has been a tremendous achievement. I hope the concerned authorities notice our achievement and work towards improving the facilities in my state. I am also thankful to Allah for being kind to me all these years. I never lose sight of my goal of representing the country and that helps in keeping pressure at bay.
You made it to Team India, but didn't get a game. How hopeful are you about another call-up in the near future?
I didn't feel disheartened. Just being a part of the dressing room, bowling/batting at the nets and looking at how the seniors prepare before a game is a great learning experience in itself. I can only do what's in my hand - going out and performing to the best of my ability. I know there's a lot of scope for improvement. Even playing for India A and doing well was a great feeling. It made me grow in confidence. If I keep performing well, I am sure my turn will come!
You were the first J&K cricketer to get an IPL contract. What are your expectations this time?
Again, it's something that's beyond my control. But yes, I hope my consistent performances will be rewarded.
Who are your role models?
I am indebted to my father, who let me chase my cricketing dreams in spite of a humble financial background. Besides, I am in complete awe of Sachin Tendulkar. I owe a lot to Bishan Singh Bedi, who has groomed me, been a constant source of motivation and keeps telling me that I will play for India for a long time. Being an off-spinner, I also admire Saqlain Mushtaq and have learnt a lot from Graeme Swann, Harbhajan Singh and Ravichandran Ashwin.
Your interest areas other than cricket?
I don't have any, trust me! My life is all about cricket. I am a deeply religious person.