The cheers were louder than usual this season and for once, they weren’t just coming from the cricket field. After years of flying under the radar, our high school’s cricket team is finally stepping into the spotlight, fueled by a string of standout wins that are turning heads across campus.

While the opening victory highlights the team’s current potential, it also brings attention to a program that hasn’t always been recognized within the school community. With growing success and renewed energy at the start of the season, now is the perfect time to spotlight the cricket team, not just for their performance, but for the dedication and progress that have long gone unnoticed.

Confidence is one of the defining traits of this year’s squad. Team Captain, Ayan Rashid, said the players are motivated by back-to-back championships and believe they are “the strongest team Edison has ever produced.” That belief was reinforced early in the season with a statement win over a longtime rival that had gone unbeaten for multiple years. Ayan called the victory “a very big relief.” 

For 12th-grade vice captain, wicketkeeper, and batsman Tahsin Jarif, the season opener was unforgettable. “It felt like the best day,” he said. “We beat our main rival in our first game.” 

Tahsin said cricket has been part of his life since childhood. Growing up, he played with tennis balls in his home country before adjusting to hard-ball cricket after coming to the United States. Now, he says the team means much more than competition. “It’s not just a team,” he said. “It’s like my second family.” 

That family atmosphere is something many around the program describe as the team’s greatest strength. Ayan said unity defines the squad, pointing to the trust that has grown between younger players and seniors. Tahsin added that because many players have competed together for years, the chemistry is stronger than ever. 

Head coach Ms. Butto echoed those thoughts, saying the team’s brotherhood stands out the most. She said the players share a bond that goes beyond the game and support one another both on and off the field. Even after two early wins, she emphasized that the team is staying focused and knows it must continue giving its best effort each game. She added, “I’m hoping that we come home with the championship, it would be great, it would be great to show off.”

The hard work behind the scenes has also played a major role in the team’s rise. Ayan said many people only notice the team during the spring season, but players have trained year-round for years, practicing through the summer and winter to improve. 

Team manager Aaifa Khatun sees that dedication firsthand. She helps run the team’s Instagram account, keeps score during games, and assists wherever needed. Aaifa said outsiders may not always notice the emotional support players give each other or the way teammates help one another with rides and encouragement. “They really don’t give up,” she said.

Senior batsman MD Kabir said joining the team gave him a chance to represent both himself and his roots. Originally from Bangladesh, he said, “I feel like I’m carrying my country’s legacy when I play.” He added that this year’s chemistry is at its peak because of the trust, communication, and resilience among teammates. 

As the season continues, the team’s goals are clear. Tahsin hopes to remain undefeated and win the PSAL championship, while Kabir put it simply: “Win it all.” Coach Butto said bringing home a championship would be something the school could proudly celebrate.

For a team that has spent years outside the spotlight, this season could be different. With talent, unity, and momentum already on display, Edison’s cricket team is proving it deserves the school’s attention now more than ever.