Meet Kashif, a Pakistani labourer who became top scorer in Norway Cup 2024

Kashif Shinwari, a Pakistani labourer who once worked as a dishwasher in a hotel, has become the top scorer in the Norway Cup 2024 with eight goals.

Kashif, a member of the Pakistani street child football team, hails from the Landi Kotal area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

"I was fond of playing football since childhood, and I wanted to go ahead by playing football," Kashif told Independent Urdu. 

Despite dropping out of school in the fifth grade due to family pressure, Kashif continued to pursue his love for football. 

He would often sneak away from his hotel job to play on a nearby ground in Islamabad.

Kashif's talent was discovered by Tufail Shinwari, a former player of the Pakistan Muslim Hand Team, who encouraged him to join the team. 

"There is immense talent in Landi Kotal, but there is a lack of sports facilities," the sportsman said.

"The football ground is not suitable for playing," he added.

However, Kashif's experience in Norway has left him in awe. 

"The football ground [in Norway] and environment are the best I've ever seen," he exclaimed. 

"The grass is perfect, and the atmosphere is ideal for playing football."

Kashif's journey from a dishwasher to a top scorer is a testament to his dedication and love for the sport.