Abdul
ODI Debutant
- Joined
- Jul 1, 2015
- Runs
- 9,212
Many thanks to [MENTION=46929]shaz619[/MENTION] for his insightful responses.
PakPassion.net : Tell us a bit about yourself? I've heard you mention that you are only half Pakistani in origin. What's the other side and how was it like growing up?
Shaz619 : Am the stylin, profylin, jet flyin, kiss stealing nature bear WOOOOOOO! I have 20inch pythons, carry a snake in my backpack and often take a shovel with me on visits to India and especially Manchester [MENTION=132916]Junaids[/MENTION]. Seriously though, I am a student in the field of aeronautics/aerospace who is contemplating what career to get into once my studies end this summer. I grew up in an inner city region of Birmingham and was initially raised in a council estate. My father was from Jamaica and my mother is from Pakistan. My nana was a poor farmer who worked very hard, saved the little he earned and made some smart investments. Then he fought in WW2 for the British Army but when he returned to Pakistan he was no longer fit to work because he had lost his eye sight in the line of duty so he sold some land he had bought in order to send my mom and a few relatives to England. Shortly after he would pass away.
In England, my mother and father met at school and it was a very complicated relationship mainly because certain relatives were against a Pakistani woman and a Black man being together; however the two were deeply in love and fought tooth and nail to get themselves in a position where they could get married. Tensions declined a little when my dad converted to Islam and our relatives got to know him better. It’s really weird but my mom was a bigger cricket fan while my dad cared little for sports beyond boxing! I was exposed to the world of Pakistan cricket thanks to my mom’s fandom of Imran Khan who was such a big star in those days even amongst the casual fan base.
My mom was very influential in my upbringing and I was rather close to her side of the family rather than my fathers besides my Grandad who was always good to me, part of me feels that the Jamaican folk never felt quiet welcomed given how my relatives were against my mother marrying a black man and they never really got over that but we did get together at times when they were left no choice at my birthday for example and it was a lot of fun!
Unfortunately, the good times were short lived. The relationship between my mother and father became very abusive on a physical and psychological level and they would separate but I’d like to reiterate that it wasn’t anything to do with colour. Once my father passed away due to gang violence in Jamaica, social services would separate our family and I found myself homeless at one point before ending up in various hostels; at this point I’d find myself changing school very often when I had to constantly move and missed out on a great deal of education during my primary years.
The other reason for missing a fair amount of time was because I had to work in order to help my family as my mom was in no state to work due to her health, the pay wasn’t great either given that my age didn’t make me eligible for the minimum wage. In between the struggles, my mom managed to gather funds to send to an army boarding school in Pakistan for a short while because she felt that perhaps I’d find much needed solace there.
But I was only 9 years old and she couldn’t handle being away from me so I returned after a short period. It was a surreal experience in Pakistan, I’d awake at 4am for prayer and then we all had to go for a jog at 4.30am with two teachers running behind us with sticks if we slowed down, then we’d all assemble in the basketball court for the national anthem as the Pakistan flag was raised. Paaak Seeh Zaameeeen Shaaaa baaaah ishwareeh haseeeh shaaahhh baaah ohhh naneh inah wanah shaaa ayeh Pakistan Paaaak Seeh Zameeeh Shaaa bah, great stuff! Gives me goosebumps, much like God Save the Queen but I only know the chorus for that one. Our lessons would then begin at 8am after our scheduled breakfast, I’d get into fights daily because the other kids were a bit hostile towards Brummies; don’t think they like us but then again who does?
Things eased a little when I was fostered by an old English lady, I didn’t want that to happen and couldn’t bare to be away from my mom but had no choice. I’d often run away from my adopted home to be with my mom but she’d tell me that it’s for the best, it was really hard but I could still visit her. It was beyond me the amount of love my foster mom gave me, in fact it’s an insult to call her my foster mom because she treated me like her own son, I was devastated when she passed away when I was still a teen. After that I was practically all on my own, it lead me to a dark place and I have certain regrets but never allowed myself to be consumed by the trials of life. Besides I was the one who my family depended on and I couldn’t be selfish.
Despite missing so many important phases of my education I never gave up, in between I was suffering from various mental health related problems and learning disabilities but didn’t know at the time and soldiered through. Eventually, after my secondary education ended I managed to get into a top 10 university in the country after 6 years of blood, sweat and tears bah gawd I had my Wrestlemania moment! The boyhood dream came true for the bear! it was a much needed breakthrough, bit like winning a WWE championship but yeah I could probably lose it within a couple of seconds of graduating given how competitive the damn market is! But the Heart Break Bear is a DOOR MAT for absolutely NOBODY! I am the SHOWSTOPPA! THE HEADLINEER! THE PAROSI SLAYER!
Many folk make fun of pro-wrestling but man along with my love for reading fiction and comics it helped ease a great deal of pain growing up, never mind all the times we layeth the smackaaadown on India’s caaandyyyyy peach! It’s always a joy to watch Virat Kohli in all his glory on a batting paradise as well these days, very very therapeutic besides Rahat Ali’s bowling.
PakPassion.net : What makes you tick?
Shaz619 : The Challenge of life itself and just surviving in general, it’s my goal to be a good role model for the people in the second city and make them believe that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and never GIVE UP! HUSTLE! LOYALTY! RESPECT! What I’ve also learned through my experiences is to hate the action and not the individual because it is through love, understanding and support that we can overcome the hurdles we face.
PakPassion.net : Why is your nickname 'the bear'?
Shaz619 : It originated from my gimmick as a bare knuckled boxer, it was one of my undercover part-time jobs as a teen. My biggest strength was that I could really take a good beating, bit like those Pakistanis you keep wacking with a danda and they keep getting up for more which made me very popular, became a bit of a cult underdog. It was very hard to knock me flat out which had the crowds calling me the bear. It was great! A bigger crowd meant more money for me! I had a decent right cross still.
What I’d do prior to the battle was head-butt the wall to emphasise my ruthless aggression and “crazy” persona but really it was all just mind games to throw my opponent off when really I may have wet me pants on a number of occasions out of fear. Looking back I was a desperate lad and perhaps it’s something I shouldn’t have done, it probably wasn’t worth it thinking about the beatings I took so thank god for free health care!
The Bear nickname would stick being someone who was very lovable and cuddly, whenever someone had any issues at school they would come to me for help and I would be the one to arrange parlay when different groups would decide to have a duel! I was very good at defusing the situation. It was a great school but with plenty of issues when I entered and on the brink of closing down after an ofsted inspection but an Irish Knight would turn things around because he understood our nature. You know, it’s easy to blame an individual when they sin but often we really don’t have an idea with regards to the ground realities and the root causes.
PakPassion.net : Do you believe in a Higher Power?
Shaz619 : I believe in the Phenom.
PakPassion.net : What's your most cherished memory as a Pakistan cricket fan?
Shaz619 : I’d say being in attendance at Edgbaston in 2010 during an IT20 game vs Australia, Shoaib Akhtar was making another comeback and the fans in my part of the stands were giving him a bit of stick! And then he’d take a wicket which sent me into an absolute frenzy! I went crazy! Ric Flair Crazy! Honestly, you got to be there to experience it but nothing compares to Shoaib Akhtar running in to bowl as we oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooohhhhh aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh'ed
The electricity Akhtar creates at the ground is absolutely unprecedented, it truly is a sight to behold; it makes you feel like you’re running in with him. Besides that I’d say the 1999 WC and the LIME GREEN! It was EVERYWHERE, unfortunately the players got a bit greedy in the final didn’t they! My uncle told me all about it! Always trusted me Uncle Behwahkootif and his highly regarded PHD, private hired driver; yeah every expat in Birminam is a cabbie hehe.
The Summer of 2009 was special and Mohammad Asif making Ed Joyce look like a village cricketer in an ODI game which the bear attended in 2006.
PakPassion.net : Do you think that Pakistan's LOI team is capable of winning any trophy soon? (CT 2017, WT20 2018, WC 2019)
Shaz619 : 100% I have faith we can win the tournament in 2019, we have around 2 years until the tournament and if we work hard now to formulate an ideal XI which we work with in order to orchestrate some consistency and stability we will be unstoppable. Am sorry but talent does exist in Pakistan, the problem is that we refuse to nurture, develop and identify it. The PCB and management have some tough decisions to make ahead of them.
PakPassion.net : What did you make of India’s tour of Pakistan in 2004?
Shaz619 : India exploited the turbulent Pakistan camp, shenanigans behind the scenes and excessive injuries in the squad; it also didn’t help Pakistan that they were missing Younis Khan. However, the series was historic given how long it had been since India last visited the Lions den due to politics and the players did the business on the pitch and maintained the spirit of cricket which was great.
PakPassion.net : What are your views about the conduct of Pakistani cricket players on social media?
Shaz619 : Absolutely brilliant! It’s the forward thinking the game desperately needs! Gimmicks sell tickets, who’d not want to come watch a grape fruit eating, green lip stick wearing social media icon smash a few out the park!!
PakPassion.net : Why do you think some Pakistani fans are so disrespectful towards Younis Khan?
Shaz619 : I think that Younis Khan is a very pretty individual inside and out, sometimes when you’re one hell of a specimen; small males tend to envy you. Same reason why no one likes Brummies. Not only that, it doesn’t sit well with them that Khan is highly successful in his field of expertise. Haters will Keep Hating, but Legends keep Legending!
WOOO!
PakPassion.net : Why do you think interest in cricket in the UK is declining and what can be done to revive participation?
Shaz619 : In all honesty I think it’s on the upcline! We often are led to believe that there is a decline given how popular football is in the country, I know! I know! It’s beyond me why any human would want to chase a ball like a junglee and call it a sport but it makes grown British men emotional a lot more than Eastenders. If we forget about Football for a second then cricket is not doing so badly in terms of popularity amongst the public.
Among others, we have 25 Premier leagues which are supported by the ECB, they comprise the top echelons of the amateur and recreational game of cricket in England and are a fantastic slingshot for entry into the FC level. When it comes to interest levels the love for the sport is there! But one of the biggest problems has been a lack of funding when it comes to grassroots cricket; there are many clubs who are not affiliated to the ECB and have been experiencing immense financial difficulty, when such clubs are forced to close down the locals in that particular region are unable to further their cricketing ambitions.
On the other hand, a bit more needs to be done as far as school cricket is concerned. My school won the Docker Shield on pure raw talent, there was no real infrastructure in place to support our campaign. our coach did not have a clue, we trained mostly in the park where we’d try to find a spot where the damn grass wasn’t so long, we had no helmet, a cricket bat which some uncle bought one of the kids from Pakistan when his friend over there got tired of using it on one the naughty bache and a pair of gloves and pads which we’d share between two batsman by wearing one glove and one pad each! What drove us was a strong desire to destroy the rich daddy’s boys who went to the Grammar School with superior facilities, better coaching, equipment and a wicket which deserved FC status.
There are School cricket associations in various regions but they’re not doing enough to support students when it comes to their cricket and basic necessities beyond regulating tournament games, it would also be great for the ECB to ensure the coaches have the adequate qualifications. For example, in order to coach young kids and adults of 13+ years a UKCC Level 2 is an ECB coach award which is required as the bare minimum; such qualifications are mostly held by the coaches who work at ECB affiliated cricket clubs but there is no such requirement when it comes to school cricket or clubs which do not participate in ECB affiliated leagues.
Furthermore, weekend club cricket games are just too long! I’d like to give an example of a relative of mine who was incredibly talented but had to give up cricket in order to be available for work on the weekends. In the Birmingham league, games are 55 overs per side and the toss is usually around 12:30pm and depending on where the game is being played you may have to leave home around 10:30am and you get back home around 8pm. New start times and shorter matches will be vital to ensure the development of cricket at the grass root level because the talent and interest is there! Not everyone is in a position to completely focus on cricket unless they’re born with a silver spoon in their mouth like Baby Root and live in those big houses with 20 toilets. Moeen Ali is the exception, not the rule! The Beard was never so mighty and glorious, it took many a sacrifice, pain and £1 chicken and chips with chilly/mayo to transform from this:
to this:
PakPassion.net : Who is your favourite player on the Pakistan cricket team? Who is your all-time favourite sportsman or woman and why?
Shaz619 : It would have to be Sharjeel Khan in the ODI team, I usually go to bed after he gets out. In the Test team it’s the Champion, the OMEGA and ALPHA! The one and only Younis KING Khan. Yeah sure many of you dislike him due to him being a “Drama Queen” or because he slapped a fan, but this Drama Queen is an all-time great and our best Test Batsman and we need to massage his ego here and there because he deserves it! Man, if I was in his shoes I’d go all out, I’d hold the PCB hostage over not including me in the T20 team and would demand a position on the selectors committee as well, I’d never retire! No one can replace me.
With regards to the famous slap which Khan allegedly gave a fan, I say MASHALLAH EXCELLENT! It may have been one of those brave kids who managed to get the courage to say “UAE” Khan to Younis’s face who was forced to discipline them and point out how he was involved in 7 of Pakistan's 9 away wins since making his debut and averages 114 across 5 of those wins in countries which include New Zealand, South Africa, West Indies and England.
It is beyond me the level of disrespect Khan receives even more so as he edges towards the end of his career and the 10K runs mark, we all make various mistakes on a personal level but they don’t define us. Often when we fall people always focus on that one negative rather than all the good you did, it’s such a cruel world and I despise the false sense of self-righteousness. Besides mental fortitude on the cricketing pitch I believe it is incredibly important off it, there was a period in Younis Khan’s life where he’d lose two brothers, a sister, his father and Bob Woolmer but he never allowed those tragedies to consume him; I found this inspiring when dealing with my own issues because it wasn’t easy losing loved ones and being all alone. Khan’s mental strength is just exceptional, it is cliché to say this but he is a thoroughbred fighter and a gift for Pakistan cricket. Likewise Misbah is another hero of mine because beyond his cricket achievements he is a great example to all of us to be the best version of ourselves and the person we are expected to be, that shining light and symbol of hope amid all the doom and gloom.
My all-time favourite Pakistan cricketer is none other than the Rawalpindi express, for me he embodies Pakistan cricket at its best and worst; he is the reason why I fell in love with cricket and just like there is only one Mike Tyson, there will never be another quiet like Shoaib Akhtar. The SPEED, the CHARISMA, the CONTROVERSIES, the HAIRCUT and that BOX OFFICE STAR POWER all combined in one just made him the complete package. He was incredibly gifted and it is unfortunate that off field issues derailed his career in addition to his selfish obsession with bowling quick.
However, across all sports I’d say Muhammad Ali, Amir Khan, Naseem Hamed, Moeen Ali and Shawn Michaels are my all-time favourite. Muhammad Ali, not just for his exploits in the ring but beyond it; he stood up for his people and his beliefs with little concern for the backlash at the time and career ramifications. Moeen Ali because he’s a Brummie hero who is a great role model for all of us and inspiration in overcoming the hurdles we face, Mo for me is the embodiment of everything beautiful about modern Britain. Shawn Michaels because he is pro-wrestling’s greatest in-ring performer and another great role model who overcame a dark period in his life to resurrect his soul.
Naseem Hamed for being arguably the most influential featherweight in history given the attention he bought to the lower weight classes and being the greatest fighter we have ever seen in Britain, his charisma and exciting style made for compelling viewing. Amir Khan for his services to sport and charity.
Finally, shout out to Ronda Rousey as well for taking female combat sport to the main stream.
PakPassion.net : Why are you such a big wrestling fan, how did it all start? Do you remember what match/show got you hooked on wrestling?
Shaz619 : Back in the late 90’s pro-wrestling was very much a part of pop culture, I once asked myself the same question; how did it all start? Then I had flash back memories of myself sitting in front of a telly watching a channel 4 graphic “WWF RAW is WAR” so I must have been around 5 years old then its my earliest memory of wrestling. In those days pro-wrestling was unavoidable it was everywhere! From the stores to the mosque! I use to give stickers of The Rock to the elder lads so they’d not snitch on me for being naughty to the Molvi Saab who put them in charge while he had some fish and chips. He was a bit of a wrestling fan himself and enjoyed performing the powerbomb on us here and there, I once reversed one of his moves into an ankle lock but he wouldn’t tap out and I ended up being punished with a Kendo Stick.
My love for wrestling stemmed from the Monday Night Wars between WCW and RAW, was a huge fan of The Rock, Undertaker, Kane, Goldberg, Shawn Michaels, Bret Hart, Hollywood Hogan and Sting. We were all so terrified of Kane back then and often wondered what he looked like behind the mask, the internet was just taking off and we’d search for him and it made us laugh when this image would appear:
We never believed that was him
PakPassion.net : How do you manage to sustain interest in wrestling when everything looks so cheesy and staged? Or is there another side to wrestling that I'm not able to see?
Shaz619 : Growing up it was such a great escape for me, it was like being in a fantasy realm where everything was so beautiful and perfect in the world apart from the time when Undertaker tried to crucify Stephanie MeekMan! Thankfully Stone Cold saved her, alhamdullilah. This love I had for the industry as a youngster remained with me throughout my life and I remained hooked throughout, many switched to MMA when they found out it was staged but for me it didn’t matter because wrestling was like a soap opera, it was about enchanting characters and story telling which combined all the fighting styles and genre’s in the world to create a unique spectacle and experience.
RAW and Smackdown are not different to any other episodic TV show in terms of how I classify them for me. I admit that in terms of storytelling and product ethos things have not been perfect consistently but the positives out weight the negatives, it’s a bit like Game of Thrones you have a couple of great episodes to start off with then filler filler filler and BANG! The finishing stretch of the season tends to be brilliant. Pro-Wrestling is very similar.
However, sports entertainment combines elements of fiction and non-fiction to create compelling TV. For example, you have a popular character on RAW who is a bit of an underdog, is always getting screwed and after years of pain/sacrifice finally wins the world title on the grandest stage of them all at Wrestlemania. But he also has a backstory in reality, it may have taken him 10 years of toiling on the independent circuit before he made it to the WWE, during that period he rarely spent time with his family, got paid peanuts for what he did, was screwed by various promoters, slept in his car or on the street at times to save money and ate out of tuna cans.
Not everyone makes it to the WWE to secure a guaranteed money contract and often spend years doing what they love in high school gyms at times before crowds of 10 people before managing to get themselves a breakthrough. When we see such characters in the WWE finally make it there are so many storyline possibilities and when the wrestler in question manages to win you’re emotionally invested in a way which is not possible on any other platform be it a TV Show or a Movie ! sure I may have cried a couple of times when SRK was dying repeatedly in Kal Hoh Na Ho or when an Indian man was kind enough to give a Pakistani woman a lift to Pakistan what was that movie called again? But not on the level of Chris Benoit and Eddie Gurrero hugging it out at Wrestlemania 20 or Mrs Elizabeth reuniting with her one true love the Macho Man Randy Savage when she saved him from that snake called Sherri Martel who was kicking him while he was on the floor!
And yes it is staged but when the wrestlers take bumps it is very painful due to little ring floor padding which is mostly plywood. The wrestlers also have to endure a gruelling weekly schedule 300+ days a year and they get no off season. It is also frightening that they’re not always in control during a match because anything could go wrong when you’re performing a stunt and the end result could potentially be fatal and they also need to rely on their opponent to ensure their safety.
PakPassion.net : If you had to choose between cricket and wrestling, what would you choose? Why?
Shaz619 : I refuse to answer this question, I want my lawyer! Where is [MENTION=131867]London_Lahori[/MENTION] when you need him!
PakPassion.net : Do you see any British Pakistani Pro boxers doing well in the future? Amir Khan has been around for nearly 15 years now since he was 17 and hardly any Brit Pakistani has come through on the same level as him at the minimum - What is the reason for this?
Shaz619 : Amir Khan was special but many don’t realise how hard he worked. Boxing is incredibly tough on every level imaginable, it’s almost a metaphor for life itself and requires the utmost dedication in order to be successful. A number of sacrifices need to be made along the way and at times your education can be compromised beyond the secondary stage. Khan was just 8 years old when he entered a boxing gym and ever since has given the sport his entire focus, what had also helped him along the way was a great support system; his father and uncle would drive him around the country for various amateur bouts and never prevented him from progressing further given Khan’s love for boxing and determination.
Thanks to Khan’s triumph at the Olympics the sport generated interest in general which was not just limited to British Pakistani’s, the Olympic boxing team for the 2008 games also benefited from funding which the sport had not received before and ever since GB have won more medals than ever post baby Amir’s triumph aged just 17 in 2004 as the sole representative of team GB. Speaking of British Pakistani’s, there have been many around the country who have taken up the sport since 2004 but very few will make it to the pro level just like any other field unless they have a genuine career aspiration to be a boxer, a good support system and are willing to put in the work.
However, look out for Qais Ashfaq and Muhammad Ali who recently represented Team GB in Boxing at the Olympics in Rio recently; they did not medal but to make it to the Olympic stage in itself is an incredible achievement and is proof of ability. Both cite Amir as their inspiration and have potential to be champions in the future. With regards to those who may be interested in talents from Pakistan, watch out for Muhammad Waseem! He has made a terrific start to his pro career and has all the tools to be Pakistan’s first boxing world champion no thanks to the sports bodies in his country.
PakPassion.net : Mike Tyson vs Muhammad Ali in their primes. Who wins?
Shaz619 : I don’t think there is a single HW in history that can beat the Muhammad Ali which fought Cleveland Williams, Tyson may have a chance against the Ali who had lost 4 years of his prime given that he had slowed down but even then it would be tough as Foreman found out! Tyson is slightly underrated given his performances in the 90’s but for those who watched him in his prime during the 80’s would agree that he did not fight in the same manner, he had given up the peek-a-boo boxing style, did not move his head, rarely trained adequately or had a proper training camp, lost his influential trainer Kevin Rooney due to politics in the 80’s, was exploited by Don King and lacked guidance after his beloved Cus D'Amato passed away who took him in when he had no one and turned him into an exceptional fighter.
PakPassion.net : Watching Mike Tyson live at ringside in his prime, on a big night or spectating at a high-profile Pakistan World Cup game in the 90's, possibly a final, which ONE would you choose and why?
Shaz619 : Mike Tyson because watching Pakistan is not good for your health as it is, a final would be too much for me to handle. I'd just pray with my mom and try to figure out which strategy we shall be using for the rest of the game after the first 5 overs, 1) the keep watching because we're taking wickets or scoring runs strategy 2) avoid the telly completely and hide in another room because it helps Pakistan perform better.
PakPassion.net : Since you are always eating (read stress eating) when watching cricket, what is your favourite cuisine and can you handle spicy Pakistani food?
Shaz619 : I’d say so but it would have to be medium spicy! I love me some Chicken Karahi, Keema Karahi and Lamb Biryani; nothing can beat Pakistani cuisine. I also love Keema and Cheese Samosas and those big Afghani family naan breads, can have one all to myself, I don’t like sharing.
PakPassion.net : Your top 5 films and why?
Shaz619 :
1. Memento
You really want to know why?
Director Christopher Nolan takes the intricacy of a psychological thriller flick to a whole new level depicting it perfectly in modern film noir. Its unique use of a non-linear narrative ensures it will live in the heads of viewers for a long time to come.
The intriguing plot focuses on Leonard’s struggle to find the killer of his wife and avenging her death. It doesn’t stop right there, Leonard suffers from a rare form of amnesia which means his short term memory is severely flawed due to him not being able to recall recent memories, as a result he must take regular photos/notes and even get tattoos on his body reminding him of everything going on around him in his daily life in pursuit of the killer.
Expecting the unexpected is a big understatement in this movie, all logical solutions seem illogical and vice versa, enemies may well be friends and those who seem trustworthy to Leonard could be taking advantage of his condition. Just when you think this gripping tale is about to unfold you will immediately be stunned by the never ending twists which is achieved unconventionally by Nolan, the same scene is shown from different points of view in reverse chronological order muddling with your perceptions.
The plot is presented in two distinct form of sequences, colour sequences are shown in reverse chronological order whilst the black and white scenes are shown chronologically. Both merge in the epic finale achieving a common story which the viewer will solve.
From start to finish Nolan’s breakthrough Memento keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, Guy Pearce’s portrayal of Leonard is fantastic whilst Carrie and Joe also Justify their roles perfectly but don’t expect them to be Oscar worthy. Memento is like a song you love listening to without understanding its lyrical content, once the lyrics makes sense the surprise of its meaning sets the motion picture ablaze again and again.
The overall rating of this classic psychological thriller is unquestionable and I personally believe it is the best in the genre. It has won numerous awards, was a success at the box office and Nolan’s work was most notably acknowledged by the Academy Awards with nominations for Original Screenplay and Film Editing.
GOLD award from the Bear, 10 ksi's / 10.
Wow, can't believe I wrote that review for Memento. The bear doesn't have a life
2. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
It made me feel like being insane was actually very normal.
3. The Seven Samurai
This was absolutely epic! Nothing quite like 7 Aston Villa fans saving the world from Bandit City.
4. The Matrix
It enabled me to get high without kuffir business. Also, Brum is brilliant but you often wonder what it’s like on the other side? After watching the Matrix I didn’t feel the need to explore beyond the wall, my curiosities were fulfilled during the movie when I’d have an out of body experience.
5. Mother India
A beautiful movie which emphasised the importance of our moms and the sacrifices they make. Robert once said that true love is giving everything and not expecting anything back in return and I’d like to think that if there is a concept of love which exists in this world it is that between a mother and her child.
PakPassion.net : Who would you choose to play yourself in a movie on your life?
Shaz619 : Umar Akmal.
PakPassion.net : If you were to time travel, which era or time period would you travel to and why?
Shaz619 : The Dawn of time, I think I’d fit in nicely with all the animals. Also, it would be great to ask Adam and Eve a couple of questions.
PakPassion.net : Favorite posters on PP?
Shaz619 : I have so many, apologise if I miss out anyone! Markhor is such a great fountain of knowledge, KingKhanWC is another excellent poster who is very knowledgeable with regards to current affairs, Adil_94 provides amazing insight when it comes to History, Red Devil has that typical Pindi humour and common sense, Captain Bribery is a legend he is the true parosi slayer not me and very sensible across all discussions, love a bit of banter with street cricketer, love how chilled out JaDed is, Robert is another intelligent poster and it's always great to get his perspective given his experiences. Lahori and Amjid Javed are great to chat to about cricket or boxing.
TalentSpotter is great at picking up on youngster beauties, if only we had year end awards, I'd give Junaids the award for the most thought provoking and innovative ideas.
Others include:
Saj
Hawkeye
MIG
TalhaSyed
TM Riddle
Haz95
Blinding Light
96 NotOut
aliasad1998 (movie expert)
Madplayer
Leatherface
TalhaSyed
miandadrules
Shaykh
Slog
Donal Cozzie
Mamoon
Just Crazy
Bilal7
Hitman
Square Drive
Syed1
Ahmedwaqas
Teesra
Haroon786
Red Devil
Big Mac
Hasan123
Rana
The_KING
Major
Captain Bribery's India XI
PakPassion.net : How did you first come across PP?
Shaz619 : It may have been through a google search or an article which quoted PakPassion, from then onwards I’d be a lurker until an essay competition forced me to sign up. Being someone who loves writing, I thought I’d give it a go!
PakPassion.net : Your love-affair with PP; What drives it? What makes PP special for you?
Shaz619 : Being able to communicate with distinct characters from various backgrounds on a variety of topics is a luxury we often take for granted, PakPassion is not just a brilliant cricket forum but an amazing learning tool which can broaden your general knowledge beyond sport. We often agree on a couple of things and disagree more often than not but that’s the beauty of discussion and the essence of a family unit which is what I see PakPassion as one big FAMILY!
PakPassion.net : Tell us a bit about yourself? I've heard you mention that you are only half Pakistani in origin. What's the other side and how was it like growing up?
Shaz619 : Am the stylin, profylin, jet flyin, kiss stealing nature bear WOOOOOOO! I have 20inch pythons, carry a snake in my backpack and often take a shovel with me on visits to India and especially Manchester [MENTION=132916]Junaids[/MENTION]. Seriously though, I am a student in the field of aeronautics/aerospace who is contemplating what career to get into once my studies end this summer. I grew up in an inner city region of Birmingham and was initially raised in a council estate. My father was from Jamaica and my mother is from Pakistan. My nana was a poor farmer who worked very hard, saved the little he earned and made some smart investments. Then he fought in WW2 for the British Army but when he returned to Pakistan he was no longer fit to work because he had lost his eye sight in the line of duty so he sold some land he had bought in order to send my mom and a few relatives to England. Shortly after he would pass away.
In England, my mother and father met at school and it was a very complicated relationship mainly because certain relatives were against a Pakistani woman and a Black man being together; however the two were deeply in love and fought tooth and nail to get themselves in a position where they could get married. Tensions declined a little when my dad converted to Islam and our relatives got to know him better. It’s really weird but my mom was a bigger cricket fan while my dad cared little for sports beyond boxing! I was exposed to the world of Pakistan cricket thanks to my mom’s fandom of Imran Khan who was such a big star in those days even amongst the casual fan base.
My mom was very influential in my upbringing and I was rather close to her side of the family rather than my fathers besides my Grandad who was always good to me, part of me feels that the Jamaican folk never felt quiet welcomed given how my relatives were against my mother marrying a black man and they never really got over that but we did get together at times when they were left no choice at my birthday for example and it was a lot of fun!
Unfortunately, the good times were short lived. The relationship between my mother and father became very abusive on a physical and psychological level and they would separate but I’d like to reiterate that it wasn’t anything to do with colour. Once my father passed away due to gang violence in Jamaica, social services would separate our family and I found myself homeless at one point before ending up in various hostels; at this point I’d find myself changing school very often when I had to constantly move and missed out on a great deal of education during my primary years.
The other reason for missing a fair amount of time was because I had to work in order to help my family as my mom was in no state to work due to her health, the pay wasn’t great either given that my age didn’t make me eligible for the minimum wage. In between the struggles, my mom managed to gather funds to send to an army boarding school in Pakistan for a short while because she felt that perhaps I’d find much needed solace there.
But I was only 9 years old and she couldn’t handle being away from me so I returned after a short period. It was a surreal experience in Pakistan, I’d awake at 4am for prayer and then we all had to go for a jog at 4.30am with two teachers running behind us with sticks if we slowed down, then we’d all assemble in the basketball court for the national anthem as the Pakistan flag was raised. Paaak Seeh Zaameeeen Shaaaa baaaah ishwareeh haseeeh shaaahhh baaah ohhh naneh inah wanah shaaa ayeh Pakistan Paaaak Seeh Zameeeh Shaaa bah, great stuff! Gives me goosebumps, much like God Save the Queen but I only know the chorus for that one. Our lessons would then begin at 8am after our scheduled breakfast, I’d get into fights daily because the other kids were a bit hostile towards Brummies; don’t think they like us but then again who does?
Things eased a little when I was fostered by an old English lady, I didn’t want that to happen and couldn’t bare to be away from my mom but had no choice. I’d often run away from my adopted home to be with my mom but she’d tell me that it’s for the best, it was really hard but I could still visit her. It was beyond me the amount of love my foster mom gave me, in fact it’s an insult to call her my foster mom because she treated me like her own son, I was devastated when she passed away when I was still a teen. After that I was practically all on my own, it lead me to a dark place and I have certain regrets but never allowed myself to be consumed by the trials of life. Besides I was the one who my family depended on and I couldn’t be selfish.
Despite missing so many important phases of my education I never gave up, in between I was suffering from various mental health related problems and learning disabilities but didn’t know at the time and soldiered through. Eventually, after my secondary education ended I managed to get into a top 10 university in the country after 6 years of blood, sweat and tears bah gawd I had my Wrestlemania moment! The boyhood dream came true for the bear! it was a much needed breakthrough, bit like winning a WWE championship but yeah I could probably lose it within a couple of seconds of graduating given how competitive the damn market is! But the Heart Break Bear is a DOOR MAT for absolutely NOBODY! I am the SHOWSTOPPA! THE HEADLINEER! THE PAROSI SLAYER!
Many folk make fun of pro-wrestling but man along with my love for reading fiction and comics it helped ease a great deal of pain growing up, never mind all the times we layeth the smackaaadown on India’s caaandyyyyy peach! It’s always a joy to watch Virat Kohli in all his glory on a batting paradise as well these days, very very therapeutic besides Rahat Ali’s bowling.
PakPassion.net : What makes you tick?
Shaz619 : The Challenge of life itself and just surviving in general, it’s my goal to be a good role model for the people in the second city and make them believe that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and never GIVE UP! HUSTLE! LOYALTY! RESPECT! What I’ve also learned through my experiences is to hate the action and not the individual because it is through love, understanding and support that we can overcome the hurdles we face.
PakPassion.net : Why is your nickname 'the bear'?
Shaz619 : It originated from my gimmick as a bare knuckled boxer, it was one of my undercover part-time jobs as a teen. My biggest strength was that I could really take a good beating, bit like those Pakistanis you keep wacking with a danda and they keep getting up for more which made me very popular, became a bit of a cult underdog. It was very hard to knock me flat out which had the crowds calling me the bear. It was great! A bigger crowd meant more money for me! I had a decent right cross still.
What I’d do prior to the battle was head-butt the wall to emphasise my ruthless aggression and “crazy” persona but really it was all just mind games to throw my opponent off when really I may have wet me pants on a number of occasions out of fear. Looking back I was a desperate lad and perhaps it’s something I shouldn’t have done, it probably wasn’t worth it thinking about the beatings I took so thank god for free health care!
The Bear nickname would stick being someone who was very lovable and cuddly, whenever someone had any issues at school they would come to me for help and I would be the one to arrange parlay when different groups would decide to have a duel! I was very good at defusing the situation. It was a great school but with plenty of issues when I entered and on the brink of closing down after an ofsted inspection but an Irish Knight would turn things around because he understood our nature. You know, it’s easy to blame an individual when they sin but often we really don’t have an idea with regards to the ground realities and the root causes.
PakPassion.net : Do you believe in a Higher Power?
Shaz619 : I believe in the Phenom.
PakPassion.net : What's your most cherished memory as a Pakistan cricket fan?
Shaz619 : I’d say being in attendance at Edgbaston in 2010 during an IT20 game vs Australia, Shoaib Akhtar was making another comeback and the fans in my part of the stands were giving him a bit of stick! And then he’d take a wicket which sent me into an absolute frenzy! I went crazy! Ric Flair Crazy! Honestly, you got to be there to experience it but nothing compares to Shoaib Akhtar running in to bowl as we oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooohhhhh aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh'ed
The electricity Akhtar creates at the ground is absolutely unprecedented, it truly is a sight to behold; it makes you feel like you’re running in with him. Besides that I’d say the 1999 WC and the LIME GREEN! It was EVERYWHERE, unfortunately the players got a bit greedy in the final didn’t they! My uncle told me all about it! Always trusted me Uncle Behwahkootif and his highly regarded PHD, private hired driver; yeah every expat in Birminam is a cabbie hehe.
The Summer of 2009 was special and Mohammad Asif making Ed Joyce look like a village cricketer in an ODI game which the bear attended in 2006.
PakPassion.net : Do you think that Pakistan's LOI team is capable of winning any trophy soon? (CT 2017, WT20 2018, WC 2019)
Shaz619 : 100% I have faith we can win the tournament in 2019, we have around 2 years until the tournament and if we work hard now to formulate an ideal XI which we work with in order to orchestrate some consistency and stability we will be unstoppable. Am sorry but talent does exist in Pakistan, the problem is that we refuse to nurture, develop and identify it. The PCB and management have some tough decisions to make ahead of them.
PakPassion.net : What did you make of India’s tour of Pakistan in 2004?
Shaz619 : India exploited the turbulent Pakistan camp, shenanigans behind the scenes and excessive injuries in the squad; it also didn’t help Pakistan that they were missing Younis Khan. However, the series was historic given how long it had been since India last visited the Lions den due to politics and the players did the business on the pitch and maintained the spirit of cricket which was great.
PakPassion.net : What are your views about the conduct of Pakistani cricket players on social media?
Shaz619 : Absolutely brilliant! It’s the forward thinking the game desperately needs! Gimmicks sell tickets, who’d not want to come watch a grape fruit eating, green lip stick wearing social media icon smash a few out the park!!
PakPassion.net : Why do you think some Pakistani fans are so disrespectful towards Younis Khan?
Shaz619 : I think that Younis Khan is a very pretty individual inside and out, sometimes when you’re one hell of a specimen; small males tend to envy you. Same reason why no one likes Brummies. Not only that, it doesn’t sit well with them that Khan is highly successful in his field of expertise. Haters will Keep Hating, but Legends keep Legending!
WOOO!
PakPassion.net : Why do you think interest in cricket in the UK is declining and what can be done to revive participation?
Shaz619 : In all honesty I think it’s on the upcline! We often are led to believe that there is a decline given how popular football is in the country, I know! I know! It’s beyond me why any human would want to chase a ball like a junglee and call it a sport but it makes grown British men emotional a lot more than Eastenders. If we forget about Football for a second then cricket is not doing so badly in terms of popularity amongst the public.
Among others, we have 25 Premier leagues which are supported by the ECB, they comprise the top echelons of the amateur and recreational game of cricket in England and are a fantastic slingshot for entry into the FC level. When it comes to interest levels the love for the sport is there! But one of the biggest problems has been a lack of funding when it comes to grassroots cricket; there are many clubs who are not affiliated to the ECB and have been experiencing immense financial difficulty, when such clubs are forced to close down the locals in that particular region are unable to further their cricketing ambitions.
On the other hand, a bit more needs to be done as far as school cricket is concerned. My school won the Docker Shield on pure raw talent, there was no real infrastructure in place to support our campaign. our coach did not have a clue, we trained mostly in the park where we’d try to find a spot where the damn grass wasn’t so long, we had no helmet, a cricket bat which some uncle bought one of the kids from Pakistan when his friend over there got tired of using it on one the naughty bache and a pair of gloves and pads which we’d share between two batsman by wearing one glove and one pad each! What drove us was a strong desire to destroy the rich daddy’s boys who went to the Grammar School with superior facilities, better coaching, equipment and a wicket which deserved FC status.
There are School cricket associations in various regions but they’re not doing enough to support students when it comes to their cricket and basic necessities beyond regulating tournament games, it would also be great for the ECB to ensure the coaches have the adequate qualifications. For example, in order to coach young kids and adults of 13+ years a UKCC Level 2 is an ECB coach award which is required as the bare minimum; such qualifications are mostly held by the coaches who work at ECB affiliated cricket clubs but there is no such requirement when it comes to school cricket or clubs which do not participate in ECB affiliated leagues.
Furthermore, weekend club cricket games are just too long! I’d like to give an example of a relative of mine who was incredibly talented but had to give up cricket in order to be available for work on the weekends. In the Birmingham league, games are 55 overs per side and the toss is usually around 12:30pm and depending on where the game is being played you may have to leave home around 10:30am and you get back home around 8pm. New start times and shorter matches will be vital to ensure the development of cricket at the grass root level because the talent and interest is there! Not everyone is in a position to completely focus on cricket unless they’re born with a silver spoon in their mouth like Baby Root and live in those big houses with 20 toilets. Moeen Ali is the exception, not the rule! The Beard was never so mighty and glorious, it took many a sacrifice, pain and £1 chicken and chips with chilly/mayo to transform from this:
to this:
PakPassion.net : Who is your favourite player on the Pakistan cricket team? Who is your all-time favourite sportsman or woman and why?
Shaz619 : It would have to be Sharjeel Khan in the ODI team, I usually go to bed after he gets out. In the Test team it’s the Champion, the OMEGA and ALPHA! The one and only Younis KING Khan. Yeah sure many of you dislike him due to him being a “Drama Queen” or because he slapped a fan, but this Drama Queen is an all-time great and our best Test Batsman and we need to massage his ego here and there because he deserves it! Man, if I was in his shoes I’d go all out, I’d hold the PCB hostage over not including me in the T20 team and would demand a position on the selectors committee as well, I’d never retire! No one can replace me.
With regards to the famous slap which Khan allegedly gave a fan, I say MASHALLAH EXCELLENT! It may have been one of those brave kids who managed to get the courage to say “UAE” Khan to Younis’s face who was forced to discipline them and point out how he was involved in 7 of Pakistan's 9 away wins since making his debut and averages 114 across 5 of those wins in countries which include New Zealand, South Africa, West Indies and England.
It is beyond me the level of disrespect Khan receives even more so as he edges towards the end of his career and the 10K runs mark, we all make various mistakes on a personal level but they don’t define us. Often when we fall people always focus on that one negative rather than all the good you did, it’s such a cruel world and I despise the false sense of self-righteousness. Besides mental fortitude on the cricketing pitch I believe it is incredibly important off it, there was a period in Younis Khan’s life where he’d lose two brothers, a sister, his father and Bob Woolmer but he never allowed those tragedies to consume him; I found this inspiring when dealing with my own issues because it wasn’t easy losing loved ones and being all alone. Khan’s mental strength is just exceptional, it is cliché to say this but he is a thoroughbred fighter and a gift for Pakistan cricket. Likewise Misbah is another hero of mine because beyond his cricket achievements he is a great example to all of us to be the best version of ourselves and the person we are expected to be, that shining light and symbol of hope amid all the doom and gloom.
My all-time favourite Pakistan cricketer is none other than the Rawalpindi express, for me he embodies Pakistan cricket at its best and worst; he is the reason why I fell in love with cricket and just like there is only one Mike Tyson, there will never be another quiet like Shoaib Akhtar. The SPEED, the CHARISMA, the CONTROVERSIES, the HAIRCUT and that BOX OFFICE STAR POWER all combined in one just made him the complete package. He was incredibly gifted and it is unfortunate that off field issues derailed his career in addition to his selfish obsession with bowling quick.
However, across all sports I’d say Muhammad Ali, Amir Khan, Naseem Hamed, Moeen Ali and Shawn Michaels are my all-time favourite. Muhammad Ali, not just for his exploits in the ring but beyond it; he stood up for his people and his beliefs with little concern for the backlash at the time and career ramifications. Moeen Ali because he’s a Brummie hero who is a great role model for all of us and inspiration in overcoming the hurdles we face, Mo for me is the embodiment of everything beautiful about modern Britain. Shawn Michaels because he is pro-wrestling’s greatest in-ring performer and another great role model who overcame a dark period in his life to resurrect his soul.
Naseem Hamed for being arguably the most influential featherweight in history given the attention he bought to the lower weight classes and being the greatest fighter we have ever seen in Britain, his charisma and exciting style made for compelling viewing. Amir Khan for his services to sport and charity.
Finally, shout out to Ronda Rousey as well for taking female combat sport to the main stream.
PakPassion.net : Why are you such a big wrestling fan, how did it all start? Do you remember what match/show got you hooked on wrestling?
Shaz619 : Back in the late 90’s pro-wrestling was very much a part of pop culture, I once asked myself the same question; how did it all start? Then I had flash back memories of myself sitting in front of a telly watching a channel 4 graphic “WWF RAW is WAR” so I must have been around 5 years old then its my earliest memory of wrestling. In those days pro-wrestling was unavoidable it was everywhere! From the stores to the mosque! I use to give stickers of The Rock to the elder lads so they’d not snitch on me for being naughty to the Molvi Saab who put them in charge while he had some fish and chips. He was a bit of a wrestling fan himself and enjoyed performing the powerbomb on us here and there, I once reversed one of his moves into an ankle lock but he wouldn’t tap out and I ended up being punished with a Kendo Stick.
My love for wrestling stemmed from the Monday Night Wars between WCW and RAW, was a huge fan of The Rock, Undertaker, Kane, Goldberg, Shawn Michaels, Bret Hart, Hollywood Hogan and Sting. We were all so terrified of Kane back then and often wondered what he looked like behind the mask, the internet was just taking off and we’d search for him and it made us laugh when this image would appear:
We never believed that was him
PakPassion.net : How do you manage to sustain interest in wrestling when everything looks so cheesy and staged? Or is there another side to wrestling that I'm not able to see?
Shaz619 : Growing up it was such a great escape for me, it was like being in a fantasy realm where everything was so beautiful and perfect in the world apart from the time when Undertaker tried to crucify Stephanie MeekMan! Thankfully Stone Cold saved her, alhamdullilah. This love I had for the industry as a youngster remained with me throughout my life and I remained hooked throughout, many switched to MMA when they found out it was staged but for me it didn’t matter because wrestling was like a soap opera, it was about enchanting characters and story telling which combined all the fighting styles and genre’s in the world to create a unique spectacle and experience.
RAW and Smackdown are not different to any other episodic TV show in terms of how I classify them for me. I admit that in terms of storytelling and product ethos things have not been perfect consistently but the positives out weight the negatives, it’s a bit like Game of Thrones you have a couple of great episodes to start off with then filler filler filler and BANG! The finishing stretch of the season tends to be brilliant. Pro-Wrestling is very similar.
However, sports entertainment combines elements of fiction and non-fiction to create compelling TV. For example, you have a popular character on RAW who is a bit of an underdog, is always getting screwed and after years of pain/sacrifice finally wins the world title on the grandest stage of them all at Wrestlemania. But he also has a backstory in reality, it may have taken him 10 years of toiling on the independent circuit before he made it to the WWE, during that period he rarely spent time with his family, got paid peanuts for what he did, was screwed by various promoters, slept in his car or on the street at times to save money and ate out of tuna cans.
Not everyone makes it to the WWE to secure a guaranteed money contract and often spend years doing what they love in high school gyms at times before crowds of 10 people before managing to get themselves a breakthrough. When we see such characters in the WWE finally make it there are so many storyline possibilities and when the wrestler in question manages to win you’re emotionally invested in a way which is not possible on any other platform be it a TV Show or a Movie ! sure I may have cried a couple of times when SRK was dying repeatedly in Kal Hoh Na Ho or when an Indian man was kind enough to give a Pakistani woman a lift to Pakistan what was that movie called again? But not on the level of Chris Benoit and Eddie Gurrero hugging it out at Wrestlemania 20 or Mrs Elizabeth reuniting with her one true love the Macho Man Randy Savage when she saved him from that snake called Sherri Martel who was kicking him while he was on the floor!
And yes it is staged but when the wrestlers take bumps it is very painful due to little ring floor padding which is mostly plywood. The wrestlers also have to endure a gruelling weekly schedule 300+ days a year and they get no off season. It is also frightening that they’re not always in control during a match because anything could go wrong when you’re performing a stunt and the end result could potentially be fatal and they also need to rely on their opponent to ensure their safety.
PakPassion.net : If you had to choose between cricket and wrestling, what would you choose? Why?
Shaz619 : I refuse to answer this question, I want my lawyer! Where is [MENTION=131867]London_Lahori[/MENTION] when you need him!
PakPassion.net : Do you see any British Pakistani Pro boxers doing well in the future? Amir Khan has been around for nearly 15 years now since he was 17 and hardly any Brit Pakistani has come through on the same level as him at the minimum - What is the reason for this?
Shaz619 : Amir Khan was special but many don’t realise how hard he worked. Boxing is incredibly tough on every level imaginable, it’s almost a metaphor for life itself and requires the utmost dedication in order to be successful. A number of sacrifices need to be made along the way and at times your education can be compromised beyond the secondary stage. Khan was just 8 years old when he entered a boxing gym and ever since has given the sport his entire focus, what had also helped him along the way was a great support system; his father and uncle would drive him around the country for various amateur bouts and never prevented him from progressing further given Khan’s love for boxing and determination.
Thanks to Khan’s triumph at the Olympics the sport generated interest in general which was not just limited to British Pakistani’s, the Olympic boxing team for the 2008 games also benefited from funding which the sport had not received before and ever since GB have won more medals than ever post baby Amir’s triumph aged just 17 in 2004 as the sole representative of team GB. Speaking of British Pakistani’s, there have been many around the country who have taken up the sport since 2004 but very few will make it to the pro level just like any other field unless they have a genuine career aspiration to be a boxer, a good support system and are willing to put in the work.
However, look out for Qais Ashfaq and Muhammad Ali who recently represented Team GB in Boxing at the Olympics in Rio recently; they did not medal but to make it to the Olympic stage in itself is an incredible achievement and is proof of ability. Both cite Amir as their inspiration and have potential to be champions in the future. With regards to those who may be interested in talents from Pakistan, watch out for Muhammad Waseem! He has made a terrific start to his pro career and has all the tools to be Pakistan’s first boxing world champion no thanks to the sports bodies in his country.
PakPassion.net : Mike Tyson vs Muhammad Ali in their primes. Who wins?
Shaz619 : I don’t think there is a single HW in history that can beat the Muhammad Ali which fought Cleveland Williams, Tyson may have a chance against the Ali who had lost 4 years of his prime given that he had slowed down but even then it would be tough as Foreman found out! Tyson is slightly underrated given his performances in the 90’s but for those who watched him in his prime during the 80’s would agree that he did not fight in the same manner, he had given up the peek-a-boo boxing style, did not move his head, rarely trained adequately or had a proper training camp, lost his influential trainer Kevin Rooney due to politics in the 80’s, was exploited by Don King and lacked guidance after his beloved Cus D'Amato passed away who took him in when he had no one and turned him into an exceptional fighter.
PakPassion.net : Watching Mike Tyson live at ringside in his prime, on a big night or spectating at a high-profile Pakistan World Cup game in the 90's, possibly a final, which ONE would you choose and why?
Shaz619 : Mike Tyson because watching Pakistan is not good for your health as it is, a final would be too much for me to handle. I'd just pray with my mom and try to figure out which strategy we shall be using for the rest of the game after the first 5 overs, 1) the keep watching because we're taking wickets or scoring runs strategy 2) avoid the telly completely and hide in another room because it helps Pakistan perform better.
PakPassion.net : Since you are always eating (read stress eating) when watching cricket, what is your favourite cuisine and can you handle spicy Pakistani food?
Shaz619 : I’d say so but it would have to be medium spicy! I love me some Chicken Karahi, Keema Karahi and Lamb Biryani; nothing can beat Pakistani cuisine. I also love Keema and Cheese Samosas and those big Afghani family naan breads, can have one all to myself, I don’t like sharing.
PakPassion.net : Your top 5 films and why?
Shaz619 :
1. Memento
You really want to know why?
Director Christopher Nolan takes the intricacy of a psychological thriller flick to a whole new level depicting it perfectly in modern film noir. Its unique use of a non-linear narrative ensures it will live in the heads of viewers for a long time to come.
The intriguing plot focuses on Leonard’s struggle to find the killer of his wife and avenging her death. It doesn’t stop right there, Leonard suffers from a rare form of amnesia which means his short term memory is severely flawed due to him not being able to recall recent memories, as a result he must take regular photos/notes and even get tattoos on his body reminding him of everything going on around him in his daily life in pursuit of the killer.
Expecting the unexpected is a big understatement in this movie, all logical solutions seem illogical and vice versa, enemies may well be friends and those who seem trustworthy to Leonard could be taking advantage of his condition. Just when you think this gripping tale is about to unfold you will immediately be stunned by the never ending twists which is achieved unconventionally by Nolan, the same scene is shown from different points of view in reverse chronological order muddling with your perceptions.
The plot is presented in two distinct form of sequences, colour sequences are shown in reverse chronological order whilst the black and white scenes are shown chronologically. Both merge in the epic finale achieving a common story which the viewer will solve.
From start to finish Nolan’s breakthrough Memento keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, Guy Pearce’s portrayal of Leonard is fantastic whilst Carrie and Joe also Justify their roles perfectly but don’t expect them to be Oscar worthy. Memento is like a song you love listening to without understanding its lyrical content, once the lyrics makes sense the surprise of its meaning sets the motion picture ablaze again and again.
The overall rating of this classic psychological thriller is unquestionable and I personally believe it is the best in the genre. It has won numerous awards, was a success at the box office and Nolan’s work was most notably acknowledged by the Academy Awards with nominations for Original Screenplay and Film Editing.
GOLD award from the Bear, 10 ksi's / 10.
Wow, can't believe I wrote that review for Memento. The bear doesn't have a life
2. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
It made me feel like being insane was actually very normal.
3. The Seven Samurai
This was absolutely epic! Nothing quite like 7 Aston Villa fans saving the world from Bandit City.
4. The Matrix
It enabled me to get high without kuffir business. Also, Brum is brilliant but you often wonder what it’s like on the other side? After watching the Matrix I didn’t feel the need to explore beyond the wall, my curiosities were fulfilled during the movie when I’d have an out of body experience.
5. Mother India
A beautiful movie which emphasised the importance of our moms and the sacrifices they make. Robert once said that true love is giving everything and not expecting anything back in return and I’d like to think that if there is a concept of love which exists in this world it is that between a mother and her child.
PakPassion.net : Who would you choose to play yourself in a movie on your life?
Shaz619 : Umar Akmal.
PakPassion.net : If you were to time travel, which era or time period would you travel to and why?
Shaz619 : The Dawn of time, I think I’d fit in nicely with all the animals. Also, it would be great to ask Adam and Eve a couple of questions.
PakPassion.net : Favorite posters on PP?
Shaz619 : I have so many, apologise if I miss out anyone! Markhor is such a great fountain of knowledge, KingKhanWC is another excellent poster who is very knowledgeable with regards to current affairs, Adil_94 provides amazing insight when it comes to History, Red Devil has that typical Pindi humour and common sense, Captain Bribery is a legend he is the true parosi slayer not me and very sensible across all discussions, love a bit of banter with street cricketer, love how chilled out JaDed is, Robert is another intelligent poster and it's always great to get his perspective given his experiences. Lahori and Amjid Javed are great to chat to about cricket or boxing.
TalentSpotter is great at picking up on youngster beauties, if only we had year end awards, I'd give Junaids the award for the most thought provoking and innovative ideas.
Others include:
Saj
Hawkeye
MIG
TalhaSyed
TM Riddle
Haz95
Blinding Light
96 NotOut
aliasad1998 (movie expert)
Madplayer
Leatherface
TalhaSyed
miandadrules
Shaykh
Slog
Donal Cozzie
Mamoon
Just Crazy
Bilal7
Hitman
Square Drive
Syed1
Ahmedwaqas
Teesra
Haroon786
Red Devil
Big Mac
Hasan123
Rana
The_KING
Major
Captain Bribery's India XI
PakPassion.net : How did you first come across PP?
Shaz619 : It may have been through a google search or an article which quoted PakPassion, from then onwards I’d be a lurker until an essay competition forced me to sign up. Being someone who loves writing, I thought I’d give it a go!
PakPassion.net : Your love-affair with PP; What drives it? What makes PP special for you?
Shaz619 : Being able to communicate with distinct characters from various backgrounds on a variety of topics is a luxury we often take for granted, PakPassion is not just a brilliant cricket forum but an amazing learning tool which can broaden your general knowledge beyond sport. We often agree on a couple of things and disagree more often than not but that’s the beauty of discussion and the essence of a family unit which is what I see PakPassion as one big FAMILY!
AmanMeltzer with his trademark ratings, we're still feuding! don't break kayfabe, typical Japan talunt 
.png "Kumar Sangakkara :sanga")
