The Taliban Cricket Club

Synopsis

When an infamous Taliban government Minister decrees that a cricket team is to be formed, the ludicrous idea finds a champion in a young woman fated to be his reluctant bride. A hugely satisfying and heartwarming story of resilience, love and courage. A soaring novel of resilience, hope, strength and tenderness, THE TALIBAN CRICKET CLUB reveals how love can overcome, and outwit, even the power of tyrants. Rukhsana, a spirited young journalist in Kabul, is summoned to the infamous Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice to face its terrifying minister, Zorak Wahidi. A cricket tournament is announced, with the winning team to travel to Pakistan for training and then represent Afghanistan at an international level. In reality, the idea is ludicrous. The Taliban will never embrace a game rooted in civility, fairness and equality. And no one in Afghanistan even knows how to play cricket, except Rukhsana. But the tournament offers hope - a means of escape for her brother and young cousins. And for Rukhsana, escape is essential - Wahidi wants to marry her, a frightening proposition which will enslave her in his home. With the help of her cousins, Rukhsana devises an audacious plan that could ensure their freedom. All they have to do is learn to play cricket - and win. Dangerous, feisty and funny - totally engaging from the first page. 'A moving, splendidly realized story of courage and grit in modern-day Kabul. I was won over by Murari's uplifting and vastly entertaining tale, which reaffirms the power of friendship, fellowship, and love in the face of all forms of tyranny.' Vikas Swarup, author of Slumdog Millionaire