How an Afghan refugee is using cricket to make a new life for himself in Norfolk

A teenage refugee who fled warn-torn Afghanistan has described how cricket is helping him to build an exciting new life for himself in the UK.

Bashir Jabbarkhail, 14, was found in a lorry in Norfolk after leaving Afghanistan.

He arrived in the country with no money and no family.

However, he is now being looked after by a foster carer in Thetford and has started coaching at the town's cricket club.

What makes his story even more remarkable is that eight months ago he couldn't even speak a word of English.

His work at the club has seen him nominated for this year's Active Norfolk's Inspiration Award, with the winner set to be revealed by ITV News Anglia's very own Becky Jago at a ceremony in Norwich on Thursday evening.

His mentor at the cricket club, Mick Piggott, says he's impressed everyone with his passion for the sport.

Bashir is hoping to play for England one day. Credit: ITV News Anglia

"He's enthusiastic, he's energetic, he's got charisma but he's a warm, kind person," he said.

"When you've been through some of the horrors he has, to come out the other side with a personality and character that's enriching and warm as his, it just lends itself to other young players."

Despite being born in Afghanistan, Bashir dreams of one day becoming England's star leg spinner and his ambitions don't stop there:

"I try my best, everything is good. My aim is to be the best cricketer in the world and to play for England."

And having already achieved so much in his life so far, you wouldn't bet against him doing exactly that...