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Meet the Academy – Muhammad Kaleem
Muhammad “Mo” Kaleem is a left-arm orthodox and leg spin bowler who is based in Exeter.
He plays his club cricket for Exeter CC and attends Exeter School.
Where did his love of the game begin?
“Ever since I can remember I have played cricket,” he explained. “My dad and my three uncles are all very good players. My dad played for Staffordshire up to Under 19s but my uncle still plays for the county. He’s a left-arm spinner and right-hand batter like me, so he has inspired me a lot.
“I got into cricket at a young age because at that time we lived in a house with a long attic. I used to go up there with my dad and brothers and play cricket a lot. We also used to practice throw downs.”
How did Mo get involved with the Somerset Pathway?
“I started playing age group cricket for Devon when I was 10 and last summer I got asked by my coach to play in the Bunbury Festival where Matt Drakeley was the coach for the South West.
“I played quite well at Bunbury so Matt called me up to play in four or five Under 18 games for Somerset and now I’m on the Academy.
What does Mo hope to achieve during his time with the Academy?
“Hopefully, I can get myself fitter and improve every aspect of my game, even my batting which I enjoy. If I get an opportunity I will take it.
“Being on the Academy keeps me busy because I have two long sessions a week when I travel up to Taunton in addition to which I have two further net sessions back at school.”
How would Mo describe his 2024 season?
“Last summer was really good for me because I came back from an injury and now I’m pretty much fully recovered. I came back and got quite a lot of wickets at Exeter Cricket Club where I play under 14s and 15s plus the 17s and 19s and also the Second XI and Third XI.
“Playing for Exeter Thirds in one match I got six for 20, which I was pretty pleased about.”
What is Mo hoping for in 2025?
“In 2025 I want to play as high a level of cricket as I can, so that would be First XI for Exeter and play a lot more Under 18s games and gain a lot more experience. Maybe I might even get to play Second XI County Cricket, that’s what I’m hoping for.
“I also want to improve my overall fitness, get a bit stronger and more athletic.”
Where does Mo want to be in five years time?
“By the age of 20 I want to be playing for England, and I think that I can do it.”
