HONG KONG/MUMBAI — Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has paid tribute to Fleet Management’s seafarers, recognizing the responsibility, teamwork and resilience required to perform in one of the world’s most demanding professions.
In a special message for Fleet’s seafarers around the world, Pathan reflected on the parallels between international cricket and seafaring, while acknowledging the people whose work underpins global trade every day.
Drawing on his experience at the highest level of international cricket, Pathan spoke about the responsibility that comes with being part of a team and delivering when others are counting on you.
“Most of what we use every day is transported by sea, and that only happens because of seafarers. Being a seafarer is not just about the job. It’s about responsibility, teamwork, and performing under pressure every single day,” said Pathan, former India international cricketer.
For Pathan, the similarities between sport and seafaring are clear: “On the field, we prepare, trust our team, and deliver in tough situations.
Seafarers do the same, just on a much larger stage where the stakes are global.”
While the work of seafarers often happens far from the spotlight, their contribution touches every aspect of modern life. From the products people use every day to the supply chains that connect economies and communities, seafarers play a vital role in keeping the world moving.
Recognizing the people behind global trade
Pathan’s message comes as Fleet Management continues to strengthen its support for the more than 27,000 seafarers across its global network. He recognized Fleet’s efforts to support seafarers both onboard and ashore through initiatives focused on well-being, professional development and practical support. He highlighted Fleet Care, Fleet’s well-being department, which provides holistic support designed to strengthen safety, well-being and long-term performance.
Built on the belief that performance begins with people, Fleet Care provides physical and mental health support, including 24/7 access to in-house professional psychologists. Over the past year, Fleet’s well-being team has conducted more than 300 counselling sessions and delivered 72 Psychological First Aid and Wellbeing At Sea modules to support seafarers across all ranks and their families.
“I would also like to appreciate Fleet for its holistic welfare activities focusing on seafarer welfare and well-being, such as Care 360, which truly shows a commitment to supporting seafarers and their well-being,” said Pathan.
Care 360 represents Fleet Management’s holistic approach to seafarer well-being, bringing together physical health, mental well-being and everyday support to help seafarers thrive both at sea and at home.
During a visit to Fleet Management’s Andheri office in Mumbai, Pathan met seafarers, onshore professionals and cadets from the International Maritime Institute (IMI), where he shared his reflections on the people who keep global trade moving. What stood out most to him was the pride people took in their profession and the strong sense of purpose that united those pursuing careers at sea and onshore.
“What stood out to me today is the pride everyone has in their profession, which is outstanding,” Pathan said.
Throughout the session, Pathan spoke about the importance of preparation, trust, consistency and composure under pressure, qualities he believes are essential both in international sport and in maritime operations.
He also spent time with IMI cadets, discussing growth, character and leadership. The dedicated session gave future maritime professionals the opportunity to hear directly about handling pressure, learning from setbacks and maintaining focus over the long term. The discussion highlighted lessons that resonate well beyond cricket, reinforcing the value of discipline, resilience and teamwork for those preparing for careers at sea.
Concluding his message, Pathan thanked seafarers for the contribution they make every single day.
“I thank you for your contribution to global trade, not just today, but every day. You make the world move. And that is something to be really proud of in maritime,” Pathan said.
Behind every vessel, every cargo movement and every supply chain are people. Seafarers make global trade possible. Fleet Management’s
commitment is to support them throughout their careers through continued investment in training, well-being and digital tools such as Fleet Care and Pulse, helping ensure they have the resources, opportunities and support they need to thrive at sea.
