The district of Gumla in Jharkhand is recognized as a sports town. Several athletes from this area have made their mark internationally in various sports including football hockey and athletics. Until now Gumla had remained relatively unknown in the realm of cricket. However the sports popularity is now on the rise largely due to the influence of Robin Minj. During the last IPL auction the name of Gumla emerged for the first time. Robin Minj a resident of the small village of Silam Pandantoli in the Raidiha block made the journey from his village to the IPL. Coming from a poor tribal family Robins success is now being talked about throughout the state. The achievement of a tribal player reaching this level in cricket is significant. However this journey was not easy. IPL player Robin Minzs brother Akash Minz shared with Local 18 that Robin has had a strong interest in cricket since childhood. His passion for the sport intensified when he was around 7 or 8 years old. The family has faith and blessings that he will perform well for the country and continue to progress. Their father Javier Minz worked in the army which led the family to move to Ranchi Namkum. It was there that Robin balanced his studies with cricket training. In the village Lal Mohan Lohra shared that Robin began playing cricket using a wooden stick to hit the ball just like other children in the village who played with plastic and tennis balls along with wooden bats. With the IPL starting Robin Minj from our village is set to play for the Mumbai Indians. We hope he performs well this season and hits some big shots eventually making it to the Indian cricket team. Robin Minz was purchased by the Gujarat Titans for ₹3.6 crores in the last IPL auction. Unfortunately he was unable to participate in last years IPL season due to injuries sustained in a road accident. This year there is hope that he will be able to play. The Mumbai Indians one of the most successful teams in IPL history have placed a bid of ₹65 lakhs for Robin. He is known for his explosive batting and wicketkeeping skills. Robin Minz will be the first tribal cricketer to participate in the IPL.