The Journey Of Sajjad Sait: Cricket, Family And Sporting Vision

Sajjad Sait embodies resilience and passion for cricket. As the owner of Thrissur Titans and a leader in promoting inclusivity, he strives to create opportunities for aspiring athletes in Kerala.

The essence of sport lies not only in winning or losing but in the journey itself. Sajjad Sait believes, “Sport is not just about trophies or statistics, but the spirit of resilience, responsibility, and an unwavering love for the game.”

For Sajjad, the rhythm of cricket has always been in his veins. He first picked up a bat at the age of eight, playing countless games with his neighbourhood friends. What started as a pastime quickly transformed into a passion, and by his school years, Sajjad was representing his school team, then his college. Over time, he continued playing both competitive and recreational cricket, including competing in the A Division League in Trivandrum and, later, with the Veterans & Cricketers Association of Kerala (VCAK). His commitment to the sport has also earned him recognition with awards such as Best Bowler and Most Valuable Player in regional tournaments, standing as a testament to his enduring skill.

Sajjad’s passion grew naturally from his family’s sporting legacy: a grandfather who was a wrestler, a father who played state-level basketball, and brothers who excelled in tennis at the state level. Sport wasn't just encouraged in Sajjad’s childhood, it was instinctive.

Cricket, unlike other games, is an expensive sport, and the cost of equipment was often a stretch for Sajjad’s family. Despite clear talent, moving beyond amateur ranks required financial resources that were sometimes out of reach. With life’s realities and mounting responsibilities, a professional cricketing career slipped away.

Life shifted dramatically when his father became ill due to a heart condition. As the youngest son, Sajjad had to step up and take charge of the family business. Cricket, despite his passion, could not promise stability in those years. “It was a practical choice,” he recalls a moment when duty took precedence over dreams. Yet, his bond with the sport never faded. Sajjad continued playing tennis-ball, cricket and indoor leagues, becoming a familiar face in veterans’ cricket circuit in Trivandrum.

Now, as the Director and owner of Finesse Group, a Government of India-recognised Star Export House renowned for its diverse portfolio of export products, Sajjad channels his leadership into his sporting vision.

With the launch of the Kerala Cricket League (KCL), Sajjad found a new avenue for his love of cricket through owning a franchise. He became the proud owner of the Thrissur Titans, a team built around young, fearless players brimming with ambition. For Sajjad, owning a cricket team means more than winning tournaments; it is about mentorship, joy, and creating opportunities. He ensures the Titans are a stepping stone for aspiring cricketers and vividly recalls the excitement of the team’s inaugural season, where, despite a rocky start, the Titans fought their way to the semifinals, an embodiment of resilience and fighting spirit.

In addition to KCL, Sajjad is committed to building an inclusive sporting environment, especially through cricket. He recently invited the specially abled players to join the Titans on the field, playing alongside professionals and celebrating their passion for the game in a truly inclusive spirit. For him, inclusivity in sports is essential: “Sports should never be about who you are or what limitations you face; it’s about the opportunity to participate and grow,” he emphasizes.

Among all cricketers, Sajjad holds Kapil Dev in the highest esteem. To him, Kapil Dev is the epitome of humility paired with greatness, and Sajjad strives to instill these values in his team. He believes that cricket is ultimately about resilience, humility, and honesty. He urges his players to focus on the process, not just the scoreboard, and never criticizes them for losses. Instead, he highlights the importance of consistency, composure, and playing without the pressure of impressing selectors.

Sajjad’s ambitions go far beyond the boundaries of KCL. He dreams of fostering a sporting culture in Kerala that appreciates a variety of disciplines, not just cricket. His vision is to establish a multi-sport academy that provides not only training facilities but also essential support systems, such as sports physiotherapy, mental conditioning, and injury recovery programs. Sajjad firmly believes that such infrastructure is key to making sports a true professional pathway for young talents.

Away from the pitch, Sajjad leads a purposeful and fulfilling life. As a father of five, he finds joy watching one of his sons take up cricket, a nostalgic reminder of his beginnings. His family is his anchor, providing constant support throughout his sporting and business journey.

Travel is another of Sajjad’s passions, whether exploring the culture of Japan or enjoying the beauty of the Maldives. Trained in catering during his youth, he seldom cooks these days, but his love for food and flavour remains undiminished.

Ultimately, what excites Sajjad most is not just running businesses or winning matches; it is the unique thrill of donning the team jersey, being with his players, and immersing himself in the vibrant energy of the dressing room. It transports him back to his childhood, chasing cricket balls across dusty grounds, cherishing the game that continues to shape his life.

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