In a country where cricket is a religion, Narender Kumar’s journey stands out like a rare curveball. Hailing from the bustling lanes of Delhi, he’s one of the few Indians to make a mark in baseball, softball, and even the Finnish national sport, Pesäpallo.
From winning gold for India to coaching Ukraine’s women’s team, and from grassroots work in slum areas to calling out the politics in Indian federations Narender’s story is not just inspiring, it’s a movement in itself.
The Accidental Beginning
“Cricket is god in India,” Narender admits with a chuckle. He too began as a cricket bowler, until a casual invitation from school friends changed his life. They were short of players for a state-level softball tournament and asked him to join.
“I said yes, why not,” Narender recalls. “The very first time I caught and threw the ball, everyone was shocked by the power in my shoulders. They told me right then, this game is for you.”
That moment was his introduction to a world beyond cricket. And it wasn’t long before softball became baseball, and soon, a new identity.
Bat and Ball in Every Form
Narender’s sporting repertoire is as diverse as it is impressive cricket, baseball, softball, and pesäpallo. “All these games are bat-and-ball sports, and that’s where I shine,” he says. “I’ve always been a fast learner, and I love games that challenge both your reflexes and strength.”
Despite the lack of exposure, he never hesitated to explore new avenues. His natural athleticism and eye-hand coordination gave him an edge across multiple formats.
A Dream Realised in Iran
Narender’s first major breakthrough came in 2015 when he represented India at the West Asia Baseball Championship in Iran.
“Before that, people said beating India was the easiest task for any Asian team,” he says. “But we went there, played our hearts out, and came back with gold.”
It was a moment of national pride but also frustration. “No real celebrations. Just a few articles in Times of India and Sportskeeda. It was heartbreaking to see that even an Olympic sport like baseball goes unnoticed.”
Europe: The Turning Point
2017 was the year that changed everything. Narender was awarded a scholarship to study at a sports college in Tampere, Finland. There, he not only studied and trained, but also played for the Tampere Tigers baseball club, eventually winning the Best Pitcher Award.
“That was my first step into European sport. Playing pesäpallo, Finland’s national sport, was an unexpected joy. I was young, excited, and soaking in every bit of the culture.”
The award was more than a trophy it was recognition in a part of the world where baseball actually matters.
Accolades on Trains and Abroad
Of the many awards Narender has earned, one stands out not just for the honor, but the memory.
“In Karnataka, I helped Delhi win gold. But our train was scheduled right after the final, so I couldn’t attend the closing ceremony. I got my Best Pitcher Award on the train. It was tragic, but unforgettable.”
He’s also the first Indian to receive the Best Pitcher award at an international tournament, and was named Sportsman of the Year in his college at just 17.
A Coach for India and Beyond
Coaching came naturally to Narender. His most prestigious assignment? Leading Ukraine’s Women’s National Softball Team.
“It was one of my proudest moments. Being the only non-European coach, teaching athletes from a completely different background, and still being appreciated for my skills it felt amazing.”
Back home, he’s been giving free coaching in Delhi’s slums for over 13 years. “I never had external support. I coached them at my own expense. I taught everything baseball, cricket, kabaddi, kho-kho. Equipment is expensive, but these games give kids a chance at college or jobs.”
Lessons from the Corporate World
Working with companies like Jump Bunch and Grit Sports Pvt. Ltd. also gave him life-changing experiences.
“These places taught me how to deal with kids, how to be patient. Everything I am today, the way I speak or conduct myself, the confidence I owe it to these companies.”
His training experiences across Finland, Romania, and India shaped his coaching style. “India has the talent, but lacks systems. Other countries have less raw talent, but their infrastructure and planning make all the difference.”
Fighting a System That Fights Back
Despite his success, Narender hasn’t been spared by the politics that plague Indian sports.
“The associations are filled with power struggles. I raised my voice against corruption financial fraud, player exploitation and they banned me for three years. They’re destroying careers. There’s no transparency, and even senior officials don’t step in.”
His frustration is evident. “Baseball and softball are Olympic sports. Yet, the ministry backs niche games while ignoring these. Without reform, these sports will never grow in India.”
More Than Awards A Legacy in the Making
Narender has already won the MRA Major Dhyan Chand Award and the Chetan Chauhan Cricket Award, but his goals are bigger.
“More than receiving awards myself, I would be happier if, one day, awards are given in my name.”
His vision for Indian baseball and softball is ambitious. “We need structure, exposure, and media support. If these things don’t change, I don’t see growth even in the next ten years.”
The Final Innings and a New Beginning
Narender knows his playing days are nearing their end. But he’s far from done.
“My dream is to win medals for India at the Asian Games, South Asian Games, and eventually, the Olympics. Before I retire, I want to set an example for young players, for baseball lovers, and for India.”
Whether on the field, in a classroom, or standing up against corruption, Narender is not just a player he’s a reformer, a coach, and a dreamer. And if Indian baseball ever finds its place under the sun, it will owe much to the fire he’s kept burning.
