Some Lesser Known Facts About Atharva Taide

• Atharva Taide, an Indian cricketer, gained recognition for becoming the second player in IPL history to retire out during the 15th over of Punjab Kings’ innings against Delhi Capitals (DC). He achieved this feat after scoring 55 runs off 42 balls.

• From a young age, he developed a deep love for cricket. During an interview, his father reminisced about the assortment of toys he had as a child, including small tricycles, dolls, action figures, and hot wheels cars. Yet, it was his plastic ball and bat that held a special place in his heart as his absolute favorite.

• As a child, Atharva’s father witnessed him gripping a plastic bat firmly with both hands, enthusiastically swinging at an imaginary ball from every possible angle, mimicking shadow practice. Impressed by his dedication, Atharva’s father took it upon himself to construct a box net in their backyard, acquire a bowling machine, and install floodlights, ensuring that Atharva could continue practicing even in the dark.

• In the past, he would spend his mornings practicing cricket at the Akola Cricket Club Ground (ACC). He would change into his uniform right there on the ground and then attend school during the day. Upon returning from school at 1 pm, he would head back to practice around 3 pm. Occasionally, he would even practice with his father in the nets until 1 in the morning. Eventually, he decided to enroll in the Vengsarkar Cricket Academy.

• During an interview, Atharva’s father opened up about the challenges he and his wife faced during their son’s cricket journey. He mentioned that they were unable to recall a single instance when they were able to attend any family functions or gatherings due to their commitment to Atharva’s cricket. Even during Diwali, it was difficult for them to leave or properly entertain their guests. To provide Atharva with emotional support, his father ensured that someone accompanied him during tours and matches. One of his favorite moments was when Atharva scored a triple century against Madhya Pradesh in the Under-19 Cooch Behar Trophy.

• Atharva Taide made his first-class debut for Vidarbha in a match against Gujarat at Nagpur on 22 December 2018 during the 2018–19 Ranji Trophy. Throughout the tournament, Atharva Taide showcased his skills on the field.

• He was selected to represent India in the 2018 ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup that took place in December 2018.

• He made his debut in List A matches for Vidarbha against Baroda in the 2018–19 Vijay Hazare Trophy on 20 September 2018 at Bengaluru.

• After showcasing remarkable performance in the U-19 one-dayers for Vidarbha in Vinoo Mankad Trophy, he was chosen to represent the Indian U-19 team. Having emerged as the leading run-scorer in India, he was subsequently granted the opportunity to participate in the Asia Cup held in Malaysia. During this tournament, he displayed exceptional skills by scoring an impressive 177 runs against Sri Lanka.

• He showcased his talent in the 2018 Cooch Vihar Trophy final by opening for Vidarbha and scoring an impressive 320 runs against Madhya Pradesh, leading the team to victory. His remarkable performance equaled the record set by Yuvraj Singh. As a result of his outstanding achievement, he was selected to represent his team in the prestigious 2018 Emerging Teams Asia Cup.

• Atharva Taide emerged victorious in the 2018 Irani Trophy, claiming the prestigious title for Vidarbha.

• On 21 February 2019, during the 2018-19 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he made his first appearance in T20 matches against Himachal in Surat.

• Atharva Taide emerged as the champion in the Under-23 season 2019-20 as a member of the winning team, marking his triumphant victory in 2019.

• He emerged victorious in the last game of the 2019 Irani Trophy by scoring a total of 72 runs.

• Atharva Taide, the proud holder of the U23 Col. CK. Nayudu Trophy, emerged victorious in the 2019/20 edition of the tournament in 2020.

• In the Vijay Hazare Trophy on December 9, 2021, he achieved his highest score in List A cricket by scoring an unbeaten 164 runs against Andhra Pradesh.

• The captain of Vidarbha’s Under-19 Coochbehar Trophy team is Atharva Taide. Atharva Taide currently holds the Under-19 Coochbehar Trophy.

• At the Holkar Stadium in Indore during the Elite Group D match of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Twenty20 Trophy in January 2021, he made history by scoring an astonishing 32 runs in a single over, setting a record that raised eyebrows.

• Atharva Taide, having emerged as the leading scorer with 1170 runs in the ECB Northern League’s first division, attracted numerous club offers due to his impressive performance. Despite declining contracts from three UK clubs, he patiently awaited an IPL contract. Finally, in February 2022, he was acquired by the Punjab Kings for a sum of Rs. 20 Lakhs during the auction for the upcoming Indian Premier League tournament. It is worth noting that Atharva Taide now features as a valuable member of the Punjab Kings’ playing lineup.

• Atharva Taide was bestowed with the Player of the Match accolade in the Ranji Trophy for his outstanding performance in a match between Punjab and Vidarbha in January 2023.

• In February 2023, Mumbai Customs triumphed over Air India by 56 runs at the University Ground, thanks to his exceptional performance. He smashed an impressive 144 runs off just 63 balls.

• In 2023, during the IPL match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals (DC), Atharva was requested to retire out in the 15th over after scoring 55 runs on 42 balls. This decision was met with criticism from former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif, who used the examples of Rinku Singh and Rahul Tewatia to highlight his point. Kaif believed that it was a terrible decision to ask Atharva to come out, especially when comparing his performance to that of Singh and Tewatia. While Singh had a slow start, scoring at a run-a-ball, and Tewatia was only on 13 off 21 balls, they were able to hit five sixes after their initial struggle. On the other hand, Taide was performing well with a strike rate of 130 and was in a good partnership with Liam Livingstone. Livingstone was playing aggressively, while Taide was doing his job as a well-settled batter, hitting boundaries and sixes. Given the situation, it was the perfect time for Taide to go for big hits. Therefore, Kaif considered it a very poor decision to ask him to come out, especially when considering the players who came after him – Jitesh Sharma, Shahrukh Khan, and Sam Curran – all of whom got out quickly. Kaif stated that if the decision had been a good one, he would have praised it. However, he challenged anyone to show him statistics indicating that a new batter has a higher chance of winning the match compared to a well-settled batter being asked to come out.

Some Lesser Known Facts About Yashasvi Jaiswal

• Yashasvi Jaiswal, hailing from Uttar Pradesh, is an Indian cricketer who gained immense attention for his remarkable achievement as the youngest player to score a double century in List A cricket.

• He comes from a family with limited financial resources. His father operated a small hardware store but struggled to meet expenses.

• Yashasvi made the bold decision to relocate to Mumbai at the age of 11, driven by his unwavering determination to fulfill his aspiration of representing the Indian Cricket Team.

• Due to his inability to provide for his family of four and the lack of room in their house, his father didn’t prevent him from leaving.

• Yashasvi was only acquainted with his uncle who resided in Mumbai. Although his uncle lived in Worli, his tiny house couldn’t accommodate him. Consequently, Yashasvi arranged for his uncle to secure a job at a dairy where he could both work and sleep.

• Yashasvi used to balance attending school and practicing cricket alone. However, his hectic schedule left him exhausted by the end of the day. Consequently, he would often sleep instead of completing his work tasks, which ultimately led to him being expelled from the dairy for his consistent sleep habits.

• Following that, his uncle assisted him in obtaining a spot at the Muslim United Cricket Club located in Azad Maidan, Mumbai. At present, Yashasvi Jaiswal can be found at Azad Maidan.

• After joining the club, Yashasvi Jaiswal began playing cricket regularly. To make ends meet, he resided in the gardeners’ tent at the ground and sold fruits and pani-puri in the evenings. However, in August 2023, Jaiswal’s childhood coach, Jwala Singh, expressed his disappointment regarding the portrayal of Jaiswal as a pani-puri seller. Singh clarified that the media falsely reported that the person beside Jaiswal in the viral video was his father. Singh emphasized that Jaiswal’s father had only visited Mumbai a few times between 2013 and 2022 for work, during which Jaiswal stayed with Singh and his family. They treated him as their own child and provided him with all necessary support. It is disheartening for Singh, as both a coach and a father-figure, to witness the spread of these false stories.

• Frequently, he would join his friends for lunch at the cricket club and kindly request them to cover his expenses.

• While Yashasvi was practicing in the nets, the local coach, Jwala Singh, noticed him. Jwala Singh, who was standing behind the nets, observed the difficult pitch that was giving trouble to all the players. However, when Yashasvi entered the field, he effortlessly and accurately hit the ball. His exceptional performance left me amazed, leading me to approach him for a conversation immediately.

• with Singh, learned that he had previously resided in a tent alongside the gardener and groundsmen. Singh extended an invitation for him to stay at his place and also promised to mentor him. Yashasvi Jaiswal commenced his practice alongside Singh.

• Yashasvi swiftly transitioned to Singh’s residence where he found a nurturing environment. Singh wholeheartedly supported Yashasvi by tending to his needs, offering guidance, and conducting daily training sessions. Additionally, Singh motivated Yashasvi to actively participate in various competitions. Presently, Yashasvi Jaiswal finds himself residing at Jwala Singh’s home.

• Yashasvi Jaiswal quickly became involved in the Harris Shield Tournament, a renowned school competition. He achieved an outstanding score of 319 not out and claimed 13 wickets for a remarkable 99 runs. This performance established a new record for the highest individual score in a school tournament. Consequently, his name earned a coveted spot in the Limca Book of World Records for achieving the “Most Runs and Wickets in a school cricket match.” Throughout the game, Jaiswal showcased exceptional skills and demonstrated remarkable prowess.

• Continuously playing, he achieved an impressive feat within a brief span as he scored 52 centuries and claimed over 200 wickets.

• Yashasvi Jaiswal was entrusted to the legal guardianship of Jwala Singh by his parents, who also granted him power of attorney, thus making him responsible for all of Yashasvi’s decisions.

• Yashasvi Jaiswal was quickly chosen to play for the Mumbai Under-16 team, and later on, he was also selected to represent India in the Under-19 team. In the picture, Yashasvi Jaiswal is seen alongside Arjun Tendulkar.

• Yashasvi Jaiswal, representing India’s U-19 team, participated in the Asia Cup of 2018. His impressive performance included scoring 85 runs, leading his team to victory and earning him the prestigious Man of the Match Award.

• Once he was chosen for the India U-19 team, he was sent to the National Cricket Academy in Bangalore. Coincidentally, his roommate during the camp happened to be Arjun Tendulkar, the son of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. When the NCA Camp concluded, Yashasvi expressed his wish to meet Sachin, and his dream materialized. He had the opportunity to meet Sachin in Mumbai, who graciously presented him with a bat adorned with his autograph. With great pride, Yashasvi Jaiswal now cherishes the bat autographed by the iconic Sachin Tendulkar.

• Yashasvi Jaiswal emerged triumphant on 16 October 2019 when he scored a double century for Mumbai against Jharkhand in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. This remarkable feat made him the youngest batsman ever in List A cricket to achieve such a milestone.

• Check out this fascinating video that delves into the biography of Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Some Lesser Known Facts About Gautam Gambhir

• Gautam Gambhir does not smoke.

• Gautam Gambhir does not consume alcohol.

• Gautam comes from a Punjabi background and was born into an upper-middle-class family.

• adopted him when he was just 18 days old, and he grew up in Karol Bagh, Delhi. His grandparents’ names were Sat Pal Gulati and Asha Pal Gulati.

• At the age of 10, he began his cricket journey and became a valuable member of his school’s team.

• Gautam Gambhir enrolled himself at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru in 2000, where he undergoes training.

• was friends with Rajat Bhatia, who held the position of cricket team captain at their school. In his younger days, Gautam Gambhir formed a friendship with Rajat Bhatia, who was the captain of their school’s cricket team.

• Bhagat Singh and Mother Teresa are the individuals he views as his sources of inspiration.

• Had he not pursued a career in cricket, he would have chosen to become a soldier.

• Gambhir and his teammate Virender Sehwag are considered one of the most accomplished opening batting pairs due to their impressive run rate of over 4.5 runs per over.

• In 2009 at Napier, during the 2nd innings, he played a remarkable knock of 137 runs in 643 minutes against New Zealand. This incredible performance played a crucial role in India’s efforts to save the match.

• In the 2007 ICC World Twenty20, he emerged as India’s highest scorer, accumulating 227 runs. Notably, he played a remarkable innings of 75 runs in the finals against Pakistan.

• In the 2011 World Cup finals, his outstanding performance of scoring 97 runs against Sri Lanka played a crucial role.

• India had emerged victorious in all six matches under his leadership.

• Under the captaincy of Gautam, the Kolkata Knight Riders emerged victorious in the IPL Championships of 2012 and 2014.

• In 2014, Gautam Gambhir underwent a hair transplant which resulted in a remarkable transformation in his appearance.

• Gautam Gambhir took on the role of a volunteer and established ‘The Gautam Gambhir Foundation’ in 2017. This foundation is dedicated to various charitable endeavors, including providing food for impoverished individuals and supporting the education expenses of children whose parents have sacrificed their lives as soldiers.

• It came as a surprise to many when Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) opted not to retain him during the 2018 IPL auction. Consequently, Delhi Daredevils stepped in and acquired him. Subsequently, it was disclosed that prior to the auction, he personally approached the KKR management and asked them not to bid for him, expressing his desire to seek a new challenge away from KKR.

• During IPL 11 in 2018, Shreyas Iyer took over as captain of the “Delhi Daredevils” midway through the tournament. This decision was made after the previous captain, who had been struggling with his batting, stepped down due to a series of losses for the team. The “Delhi Daredevils” squad included Gautam Gambhir and Shreyas Iyer.

• He is a Teetotaller.

• Because he keeps his pads on until the end of every match, it is evident that he is superstitious.
• Gautam Gambhir joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on 22 March 2019, just a few weeks before the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections. Expressing his admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, he stated that it had a profound impact on him. Despite his notable contributions to cricket, Gambhir expressed his desire to make even greater contributions to the nation.
• On September 2, 2023, a video featuring Gautam Gambhir went viral. In the video, Gambhir was seen making an offensive gesture towards cricket fans during the 2023 Asia Cup match between India and Pakistan. As Gambhir left the field, the crowd could be heard chanting “Kohli, Kohli.” It is worth noting that Gambhir and Virat Kohli have had a history of disagreements, which has been widely reported in the media. However, Gambhir later addressed the incident in an interview and claimed that the video did not accurately depict what had happened. According to him, the crowd was actually chanting anti-India slogans, and his reaction was a response to these slogans. In the interview, Gambhir stated that if someone shouts anti-India slogans and discusses Kashmir, it is only natural to react rather than ignore the situation. He explained that in this specific incident, there were a couple of Pakistanis who were making negative remarks about India and discussing Kashmir. Therefore, his instinctive response was to defend his country, as he cannot tolerate any derogatory remarks against it. Later on, the true video of the incident surfaced on the internet, revealing that the audio in Gambhir’s original video had been taken from a different video dating back to 2016.

Check out this genuine video featuring #GautamGambhir: pic.twitter.com/klgDE2rsMi

On September 4, 2023, a Twitter account with the username @narendramodi177 expressed admiration for Narendra Modi.

Gautam Gambhir: Sport Successes and Achievements

Gautam Gambhir is a former Indian cricketer who has left a lasting impact on the sport with his incredible successes and achievements. Known for his aggressive batting style and strong leadership skills, Gambhir was a key player in the Indian cricket team for over a decade.

One of Gambhir’s most memorable moments came in the 2011 Cricket World Cup final, where he played a crucial role in India’s victory over Sri Lanka. His innings of 97 runs helped India chase down a challenging target and secure their second World Cup title. Gambhir’s performance in the final was a testament to his ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations.

Throughout his career, Gambhir was known for his consistency and determination on the field. He scored over 10,000 runs in international cricket, including 20 centuries, and was a reliable top-order batsman for India. His contributions to the team were not limited to his batting, as he also served as a mentor and leader for his younger teammates.

Off the field, Gambhir has been involved in various charitable initiatives and has used his platform to raise awareness about social issues. He has supported causes such as education for underprivileged children and has been a vocal advocate for gender equality.

Overall, Gautam Gambhir’s sport successes and achievements have earned him a place among the all-time greats of Indian cricket. His passion for the game, leadership qualities, and philanthropic efforts have cemented his legacy as a true champion both on and off the field.

Some Lesser Known Facts About Naveen-ul-Haq

• On 1 May 2023, during an IPL match between the Royal Challengers Bangalore and the Lucknow Super Giants, a confrontation arose between Naveen-ul-Haq, an Afghan cricketer, and the former Indian captain Virat Kohli.

• After being born in Kabul, he relocated to Pakistan due to his family’s circumstances. He resided there for approximately five to six years, during which he did not engage in cricket.

• His fascination and adoration for cricket sprouted from hours spent watching Indian cricket players on TV. Although his parents prohibited him from playing cricket on the weekends, he would eagerly engage in tape-ball cricket right outside his home.

• During his cricket sessions with his brother, he would take on the roles of a batsman and a wicketkeeper, but had no interest in bowling.

• His fascination with cricket began when he witnessed Afghanistan’s triumphant qualification for the inaugural T20 World Cup held in the West Indies in 2012. During his formative years, he held Hamid Hassan in high esteem, considering him his idol. This admiration fueled his passion for cricket and specifically for the art of fast bowling.

• Upon his return to Afghanistan, he expressed his desire to his father of pursuing a career as a professional cricketer and playing cricket. However, his father opposed the idea and refused to let him play. In a bid to change his father’s mind, Naveen sought the help of his brother, who had a persuasive influence over their father. Eventually, his brother managed to convince their father, leading Naveen to enroll in the National Cricket Academy. To facilitate the registration process, his brother kindly completed the necessary forms on his behalf.

• Upon joining the academy, he encountered difficulty in handling a leather ball, resulting in his attempt to avoid practice. He would often inform his coach about lacking suitable shoes or sustaining injuries, ultimately leading his coach to reassign him to practice with the younger players.

• After a while, he became accustomed to the routine and excelled in bowling, prompting his coach to invite him to bowl alongside the more experienced players.

• One day during practice, there were trials being held for the under-16 national team, of which he was completely unaware. Unknowingly, he lined up with the fast bowlers and bowled three deliveries before being told to stop by the selector. In a subsequent interview, he expressed feeling disheartened, believing that his bowling skills were not valued by others. However, his spirits were lifted that evening when the announcement of the 50 selected players for the trial matches the following day included his name. Overjoyed by this news, he participated in the trial games and managed to take just one wicket. Nevertheless, he was thrilled to discover that he had secured a spot in the under-16s squad. With uncertainty about what lay ahead and the activities the squad would engage in, he eagerly awaited further instructions.

• When he was 11 years old, he embarked on a journey to Penang as a representative of his country in the U-16 team. Unfortunately, his performance in the initial tournament was subpar, leading him to abandon bowling upon his return. Instead, he focused solely on batting for an entire year. However, as time passed, he recognized that in order to pursue a career in professional cricket, he needed to address his weaknesses. Two years later, he reentered the same tournament, this time as a bowler, and astoundingly captured 15 wickets while conceding a mere 69 runs. As a result, he earned the prestigious title of “Bowler of the Tournament.”

• Naveen-ul-Haq, at the age of 15, played a crucial role in Afghanistan’s victory at the ACC Under-19 2014 Premier League. He showcased exceptional talent by claiming 16 wickets while conceding a mere 6.5 runs per wicket.

• Following the tournament, he informed his family of his intention to demonstrate his worth and requested some time to do so. Despite lacking a coach, he made the decision to engage a personal trainer and dedicate four hours daily to rigorous workouts at the gym. Additionally, he committed himself to a strict diet. His unwavering efforts were driven by the realization that failure to succeed as a cricketer would necessitate leaving the country for educational or professional pursuits.

• He had his first appearance in a List A match against Bangladesh at Mirpur on September 25, 2016.

• Naveen-ul-Haq emerged victorious in the ACC Under-19 Youth Asia Cup, securing the title in 2017. He was duly honored with the award for his exceptional performance in the tournament.

• On 7 March 2018, he participated in his inaugural match for Kabul Eagles in the Ahmad Shah Abdali 4-day Tournament, marking his debut in the first-class cricket.

• He was included in the roster of the Nangarhar Leopards squad for the inaugural Afghanistan Premier League tournament in September 2018.

• Sylhet Thunder had him on their team for the 2019–20 Bangladesh Premier League, where he played in November 2019.

• He was selected to join the 2020 Caribbean Premier League roster for the Guyana Amazon Warriors in July 2020.

• The Kandy Tuskers chose him to join their team for the first-ever edition of the Lanka Premier League in October 2020.

• He joined the Leicestershire Foxes in February 2021, participating in the 2021 T20 Blast tournament in England. However, he did not make the cut for the 2022 season in England.

• During the T20 Vitality Blast in June 2022, he participated in a match against the Worcestershire Rapids, where he achieved a significant milestone by taking his maiden five wickets in Twenty20 cricket. His impressive bowling performance resulted in a score of 5/11 in just four overs.

• During the third edition of the Lanka Premier League in July 2022, Colombo Stars chose him to be part of their team.

• The Lucknow Super Giants purchased him during the 2023 Indian Premier League auction, which took place in December 2022.

• He participated in the 2016 Under-19 Cricket World Cup as a member of Afghanistan’s squad.

• Naveen-ul-Haq, the captain of Afghanistan in the 2016 Under-19 Asia Cup, celebrated with his team after their victorious win in the 2016 Under-19 Cricket World Cup. This achievement took place in December 2016.

• Naveen-ul-Haq celebrated alongside his team after making his Twenty20 debut for Afghanistan against Namibia in the 2017 Desert T20 Challenge on January 19, 2017. Following their triumph in the same tournament, he rejoiced with his teammates.

• Naveen-ul-Haq was selected as Afghanistan’s captain for the 2018 Under-19 Cricket World Cup in December 2017. During the tournament, he displayed remarkable skills and delivered an outstanding performance.

• He joined Afghanistan’s T20I squad for the 2019-20 Bangladesh Tri-Nation Series in August 2019.

• In December 2020, he used Twitter to express his thoughts on the advice given by Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi. During a match between Kandy Tuskers and Galle Gladiators at the Mahinda Rajapaksha Stadium in Hambantota, Naveen got into a fight with Mohammad Amir during the 18th over. Naveen was observed speaking disrespectfully to Amir while he was batting. After the game ended, they shook hands and Shahid Afridi spoke with Naveen, offering him advice. Afridi later took to Twitter to share the advice he gave, stating, “I straightforwardly advised the young player to focus on playing the game and avoid using abusive language. I have close friendships with members of the Afghanistan team, and we maintain a respectful and friendly bond. The core essence of the game lies in showing respect to both teammates and opponents.” In response to Afridi’s tweet, Naveen also resorted to Twitter, asserting that cricket, a game renowned for its sportsmanship, encourages the willingness to accept advice and show respect. However, when someone belittles us and implies that we will always be inferior, it is not just a personal attack on me but an insult to my entire community.
• He was selected to be part of Afghanistan’s team for the 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in September 2021.

• Leicestershire’s player took the lead in wicket charts during the Vitality Blast of 2021, securing an impressive 26 wickets in 14 games. With an economy rate of 8.67, he showcased exceptional bowling skills.

• He was chosen by Lucknow Super Giants for a sum of Rs. 50 lakh in December 2022.

• Naveen-ul-Haq was honored in 2022 by Leicestershire County Cricket Club, who presented him with the prestigious Gold Fox cap as a token of appreciation for his unwavering dedication and exceptional service to the club.

• In January 2023, Naveen took to Twitter to express his decision of not participating in the Big Bash League (BBL) for Sydney Sixers. This announcement came after Cricket Australia declared that they would be abandoning the upcoming series against the Asian team in March 2023. The reason behind CA’s decision was the Taliban’s recent actions that restricted women’s rights in the country. In his tweet, Naveen stated, “I will no longer be a part of the big bash until these immature decisions are ceased. This is not the way to handle the one-off test or the ODI. Instead of offering support during a challenging time for a country, you are taking away their only source of joy.” He concluded his post with the hashtag #CA.

• During the interview, he mentioned that his bowling technique underwent alterations due to back problems and injuries that occurred between 2015 and 2016.

Bio/Wiki
Profession	Cricketer (All-rounder)
Physical Stats & More
Height (approx.)	in centimeters– 203 cm in meters– 2.03 m in feet & inches– 6’ 8”
Eye Colour	Black
Hair Colour	Black
Cricket
International Debut	ODI– Did not play yet Test– Did not pay yet T20– Did not play yet
Jersey Number	# 70 (Mumbai Indians)
Domestic/State Team	Mumbai Indians North West Knights Warriors
Batting Style	Right hand bat
Bowling Style	Left arm fast
Personal Life
Date of Birth	May 01, 2000 (Monday)
Age (as of 2021)	22 Years
Birthplace	Klerksdorp, South Africa
Zodiac sign	Taurus
Signature
Nationality	South African
School	Laerskool Goudkop
Hobbies	Playing golf
Relationships & More
Marital Status	Unmarried
Family
Wife/Spouse	N/A
Parents	Father– Jacobus Jansen Marco Jansen and his family Mother– Erna Pretorius Marco Jansen accompanied by his mother.
Siblings	Brother– 1 Duan Jansen Sister– 2 Leandri Jansen Bianca Jansen Marco Jansen with his siblings
Favourite Things
Cricketer	Batsman– Virat Kohli Bowler– Mitchell Johnson
Money Factor
Net Worth (approx.)	20 Lakhs INR [1]https://www.cricbuzz.com/cricket-series/ipl-2021/auction/players/14565

Some Lesser Known Facts About Marco Jansen

• Marco Jansen, hailing from South Africa, showcases his skills as an all-rounder in cricket. He represents the North West team in the domestic league and plays for the Mumbai Indians franchise in the IPL.

• Marco Jansen joined North West cricket club on 8th April 2018, marking his debut in List-A matches for the team in the 2017-18 CSA Provincial One-Day Challenge. He then went on to make his First-class debut for North West in the 2018-19 CSA 3-Day Provincial Cup on 11th October 2018.

• Duan Jansen, the twin brother of Marco Jansen, participated in the 2017-18 CSA Provincial One-Day Challenge as a player for North West.

• During a U-9s school cricket match, Jacobus Jansen, a rugby union player for Free State Cheetahs and father of Marco Jansen, made an exciting discovery about his son’s talent. Marco, who was the opening batsman in the match, showcased exceptional skills by scoring an unbeaten 164 runs in just 20 overs. Another player, Duan, also impressed with a score of over 80 at No. 4. Witnessing their remarkable performance, Jacobus realized that to maintain focus and achieve such high scores at such a young age, they must possess extraordinary talent. Intrigued by this, he decided to further explore their abilities by training them in the nets, teaching them various techniques, and bowling to them. It became evident that both Marco and Duan were truly gifted players, assuring Jacobus that they had a promising future in the world of cricket. Accompanied by their father, Marco Jansen and his twin brother, Duan Jansen, continued their cricket journey.

• Considered a serious talent in the South African domestic circuit, Marco Jansen stands at a towering height of almost seven feet. Not only does he possess impressive bowling skills, consistently clocking speeds of approximately 140-142 kph, but he also adds value with his batting prowess.

• During team India’s tour of South Africa in the 2017-18 season, Marco Jansen and his brother Duan Jansen had the opportunity to bowl to Virat Kohli in the nets.

• Alongside Rahul Dravid, Marco Jansen served as a net bowler for the India-A team during their tour of South Africa in 2017. During this period, he had the opportunity to bowl to notable players such as Manish Pandey, Karun Nair, Abhinav Mukund, Shreyas Iyer, and Ishan Kishan.

• In the 2018-19 CSA 3-Day Provincial Cup, he was the top wicket-taker for his team, North West, securing an impressive total of 27 wickets across six matches.

• In First-class cricket, Marco Jansen has participated in 12 matches and successfully claimed 52 wickets, maintaining an average of 20.51 and a strike rate of 37.8. Additionally, he has also competed in 13 List-A matches, obtaining 16 wickets.

• Marco Jansen was selected to join the South Africa U-19 squad for a tour in India in January 2019. The South Africa U-19 team specifically chose Marco Jansen for this opportunity.

• Based on his exceptional First-class cricket performance, Marco Jansen was selected for the South Africa national team on their tour to Pakistan. Unfortunately, he did not get the opportunity to make his test debut for his country.

• At the IPL auction, Marco Jansen was acquired by Mumbai Indians for a starting price of 20 lakhs INR. Mumbai Indians have a track record of spotting untapped potential and transforming them into exceptional players, as seen with the likes of Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah, who began their journey in the team and eventually became integral members of the first-team squad.

• During an interview, Zaheer Khan, the Mumbai Indians director of cricket operations, expressed his astonishment at the unexpectedly low price at which the talented bowler Marco Jansen was sold. Given Jansen’s exceptional reputation in South Africa, the team had anticipated a much higher level of interest and bidding for him.

• In an interview, Akash Ambani, owner of Mumbai Indians, discussed Marco Jansen and their scouting program. He mentioned that they have been closely monitoring Jansen’s progress for the past two years. They have also introduced an international scout program, modeled after their successful Indian scout program. As a result, Jansen was chosen to be a part of the Test squad for the Pakistan tour this year. Ambani revealed that they had a private conversation with Quinton de Kock, who expressed confidence in Jansen’s abilities and advised Mumbai Indians to pursue him.

• After joining Mumbai Indians, Marco Jansen has become the tallest player in the history of IPL. Mumbai Indians have officially acquired the services of Marco Jansen.

• In his first match for Mumbai Indians against Royal Challengers Bangalore at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Marco Jansen had a rocky start by conceding 13 runs in his initial over. However, he turned the tables in his third over and successfully dismissed Glenn Maxwell and Shahbaz Ahmed later in the game.

DUBLE TRUBLE

Marco Jansen, the debutant, makes a significant impact by taking two wickets in a single over, resurging the momentum for #MI in the game. #OneFamily #MumbaiIndians #MI #MIvRCB #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/9odbhiaBNg

On April 9, 2021, Mumbai Indians tweeted.

• Despite losing the opening match against Royal Challengers Bangalore, Mumbai Indians received praise for Marco Jansen’s outstanding performance in his debut. Jansen’s figures of 2-28 off his four-over spell were highly applauded.

Great job tonight, Marco Jansen! Even though we didn’t win, you should feel incredibly proud.

On April 9, 2021, Dale Steyn tweeted, “@DaleSteyn62.”

Some Lesser Known Facts About Virat Kohli

• Is it true that Virat Kohli consumes alcohol?

• shows him holding a cricket bat, which clearly highlights his early passion for the sport.

• At the age of 9½, Virat Kohli was introduced to Raj Kumar Sharma’s West Delhi Cricket Academy by his father. He began his journey under the guidance of his coach, Raj Kumar Sharma.

• In 2003, Ashish Nehra’s coach Raj Kumar Sharma extended an invitation to him to join his academy. At the academy, young Kohli was recognized by Sharma for being the top run-scorer for Delhi in the 2002-2003 Polly Umrigar Trophy, with an impressive total of 172 runs at an average of 34.40. Since that time, Kohli and Nehra’s partnership has undergone a significant transformation.

• During his childhood, his Delhi State coach Ajit Chaudhary bestowed upon him the nickname ‘Chikoo’.

• He used to dislike ‘Maths’, but his preferred subject was ‘History’.

• Despite the tragic loss of his father to a brain stroke in 2006, he displayed remarkable resilience as he stepped onto the field the very next day. Playing for Delhi against Karnataka, he delivered a match-saving performance, scoring an impressive 90 runs.

• He never entertained the idea of having a backup plan for his future because his sole aspiration was to become a cricketer.

• He possesses several superstitions, such as donning black wristbands and ensuring he always wears his ‘Kada’ prior to his matches.

• He has a fear of heights.

• He dislikes engaging in lengthy conversations over the phone.

• He consistently dons black wristbands due to his superstitious beliefs.

• He exhibits both aggression and strong emotions, often shedding tears when upset. This was evident when he was spotted crying on the field in 2012 during the T20 World Cup, after India failed to qualify for the semi-finals.

• In 2012, he emerged victorious as the recipient of the prestigious ICC ODI Player of the Year Award.

• He earned the title of being among the top 10 well-dressed men worldwide in 2012.

• The Government of India honored Virat Kohli with the Arjuna Award in 2013 and the Padma Shri Award in 2017, bestowing upon him the prestigious Padma Shri Award.

• In the same year, Virat Kohli was appointed as the inaugural brand ambassador of the Border Security Force (BSF).

• is a devoted admirer of Swiss tennis superstar Roger Federer. Additionally, he holds the position of co-owner for the prestigious ‘UAE Royals’ team in the International Premier Tennis League.

• He has a strong passion for tattoos and continues to add to his collection. His first tattoo, located on his left shoulder, is called the ‘God’s eye’ which represents the ability to see and understand the unknown and unknowable. The second tattoo on his left shoulder is a ‘Japanese Samurai warrior’ symbolizing loyalty to one’s master, self-discipline, and ethical behavior. On his left arm, he has a tattoo of a ‘Monastery’ which signifies peace and power. Another tattoo on his left arm depicts ‘Lord Shiva in meditation with Mount Kailash and Mansarovar lake.’ Lastly, on his right bicep, he has a tattoo of a ‘Scorpion’ representing his Zodiac sign. In March 2023, just before the 2023 IPL season, he proudly revealed a new tattoo on his right hand. Tattoo artist Sunny Bhanushali, who created the artwork, described it as a reflection of Kohli’s spiritual beliefs. Bhanushali shared a preview of the tattoo on his blog, expressing his excitement and the pressure he felt working with the renowned Virat Kohli. The tattoo held great significance for Kohli, and he showed unwavering dedication to achieving perfection. With utmost creativity and diligence, Bhanushali designed the artwork, refining every element for flawless execution. Thus, Virat Kohli’s right hand is adorned with a meaningful tattoo.

• is located in Delhi and is named ‘Nueva.’

• In 2016, a video of him singing “Jo Wada Kiya Hai Nibhana Padhega” had become incredibly popular, showcasing his decent singing skills.

• Click here to discover Virat Kohli’s fitness secrets! He is an incredibly driven athlete, dedicating himself not only to improving his cricket abilities but also to maintaining his fitness. As a result, he is admired by numerous individuals.

• Virat and Anushka tied the knot in a private ceremony in Tuscany, Italy on December 11, 2017. For additional information, click here!

• Virat Kohli was honored with the esteemed Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award by the Government of India on 25 September 2018.

• In October 2019, he made a revelation about his decision to become a vegetarian. He expressed feeling better and a sense of pride since adopting this lifestyle. Sharing his thoughts on Twitter, Kohli wrote,

• During India’s 2014 tour of England, Kohli’s batting performance was subpar, averaging only 13.5 runs over ten innings. In the five Tests, he scored 1, 8, 25, 0, 39, 28, 0, 7, 6, and 20 runs. As a result of this disappointing performance, Kohli experienced depression. He disclosed this while speaking with former England player Mark Nicholas on his ‘Not Just Cricket’ podcast. Kohli expressed his struggle to move on from that period, feeling completely powerless to change the circumstances. He also described a profound sense of loneliness, as if he were the most isolated person on Earth.

• He made an announcement on Twitter on 16 September 2021 that he will step down as India’s T20 captain after the T20 World Cup in UAE. However, he clarified that he will continue to lead the Indian team in ODIs and Test cricket. In his Twitter post, he stated that he has decided to resign as the T20 captain after the T20 World Cup in Dubai in October. He mentioned that he recognizes the significance of workload and believes it is important to acknowledge the immense load he has carried for the past 8-9 years, participating in all three formats and captaining consistently for the last five to six years. Therefore, he feels it is necessary for him to allocate sufficient time to thoroughly prepare himself for the responsibility of leading the Indian team in Test and ODI cricket. He also added that even though he will no longer be the T20 captain, he will continue to dedicate himself wholeheartedly to the team in his role as a batsman.

• On January 15, 2022, he made an announcement on Twitter that he had resigned as the Test captain. In his tweet, he mentioned that he had dedicated himself to leading the team for seven years with unwavering determination, hard work, and perseverance. He stated that he had approached his role with utmost honesty and had left no stone unturned. However, he acknowledged that every journey must come to an end, and for him, that time had come. Throughout his captaincy, they had experienced many victories and a few setbacks, but they had never lacked effort or belief. He emphasized that he always aimed to give 120 percent in all his endeavors and if he couldn’t meet that standard, he knew it wasn’t the right path for him. He expressed his gratitude to the support group, led by Ravi Bhai, for their contribution to the team’s consistent rise in Test Cricket. He also thanked M.S. Dhoni for believing in him as captain and recognizing his leadership abilities in leading Indian cricket to success.

• NDTV reported that on June 7, 2022, he achieved the milestone of being the first Indian to surpass 200 million followers on Instagram.

• During an interview with the media on 4th September 2022, Virat Kohli praised M.S. Dhoni for being the only person to reach out to him when he resigned as the Test captain in January 2022. Kohli mentioned that Dhoni, whom he has played with in the past, was the sole individual who offered his support during that time. Kohli also expressed his disappointment with those who freely give suggestions during television debates without directly approaching him. He mentioned that despite having many people with his contact information, he has not received any messages from them.

Virat Kohli: Sport Successes and Achievements

Virat Kohli, the Indian cricket captain, has achieved remarkable success and accolades in his sporting career. Known for his aggressive batting style and exceptional leadership skills, Kohli has cemented his place as one of the greatest cricketers of all time. From leading India to victories in numerous series and tournaments to setting records and milestones in the sport, Kohli’s career has been nothing short of spectacular.

One of Kohli’s most notable achievements is his consistency in scoring centuries across all formats of the game. His ability to adapt to different conditions and oppositions has earned him praise from cricketing legends and fans alike. Kohli’s leadership skills have also been commendable, as he has led India to several series wins both at home and abroad.

Kohli’s success on the field has also translated into numerous accolades off the field. He has been awarded the prestigious ICC Cricketer of the Year multiple times and has been named in various all-time cricketing XI’s. Kohli’s passion for the game and his dedication to fitness have set him apart from his peers, making him a role model for aspiring cricketers around the world.

In conclusion, Virat Kohli’s sport successes and achievements have solidified his legacy as one of the greatest cricketers of all time. His hunger for success and his never-say-die attitude have endeared him to fans and critics alike, making him a true icon in the world of cricket. Kohli’s journey from a young cricketer to a world-renowned superstar is a testament to his hard work, talent, and determination.

Some Lesser Known Facts About Mohit Sharma

• Is Mohit Sharma a smoker?: No

• It is unknown if Mohit Sharma consumes alcohol.

• In October 2013, at Lahli, Mohit became the final bowler to dismiss Sachin Tendulkar in a domestic First-Class cricket match.

• In 2008, he encountered a challenging period when a back injury forced him to take a year-long break from the game.

• He made his IPL debut for Chennai Super Kings in 2013 and emerged as the second-highest wicket-taker of the tournament, claiming a total of 20 wickets.

• In his ODI debut against Zimbabwe in 2013, he was named the Man of the Match.

• The Faridabad Academy is where he acquired his bowling skills.

• Lionel Messi is someone he greatly admires and supports.

• Despite his success, he remains humble and courteous, choosing to reside in his original home and frequent the academy where he initially honed his cricket skills, utilizing the same resources as his fellow trainees.

• After his IPL contract expired for two seasons in 2021 and 2022, he made a comeback to his IPL career in 2023 with the Gujarat Titans. In the 26th season of the IPL, Mohit achieved an impressive feat by securing third place in the leading wicket takers’ list. He took 24 dismissals in 13 matches, with an outstanding average of 13.54. [1] This information was reported by India Today.

Some Lesser Known Facts About Ruturaj Gaikwad

• Ruturaj Gaikwad, hailing from Maharashtra, India, is a talented domestic cricketer. He represents Maharashtra, India A, and Chennai Super Kings. Ruturaj’s journey in cricket commenced at a young age, with his training taking place at the Vengsarkar Cricket Academy in Pune’s Pimpri-Chinchwad area. His dedication and skills led him to participate in a local cricket tournament organized by his academy.

• Ruturaj Gaikwad commenced his cricket journey with the Maharashtra team, initially representing them in the U-16 and U-19 categories. He made his entry into first-class cricket by playing for Maharashtra in the 2016-17 Ranji Trophy season.

• Ruturaj Gaikwad, who showed remarkable consistency in state-level matches, was acquired by Chennai Super Kings in December 2018 for the base price of Rs. 20 lakhs. He went on to participate in the 2019 Indian Premier League. [3]

• Ruturaj Gaikwad’s outstanding performance during the June 2019 match against Sri Lanka A while representing India A earned him 187 runs (not out) and the prestigious Man of the Match award.

• He joined the India Blue team’s squad for the 2019-20 Duleep Trophy in 2019.

• Ruturaj traveled with Chennai Super Kings to the U.A.E. for the 2020 Indian Premier League. However, upon arrival, the entire team, including Ruturaj, tested positive for Covid-19. After recovering, Ruturaj resumed practice sessions on 21 September 2020.

The sight you long for on a Monday morning: Guess who’s returned! #Ruturaj #WhistlePodu #Yellove pic.twitter.com/GXYIMs1OBx

On September 21, 2020, Chennai Super Kings tweeted as @ChennaiIPL.

• Due to personal reasons, Suresh Raina had to leave the premier league and Ruturaj Gaikwad was brought in as his replacement. Ruturaj, a passionate fan of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, frequently joins him on the field during practice sessions. In the IPL, it is common to spot Ruturaj Gaikwad practicing alongside the legendary Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

• During his free time, Ruturaj Gaikwad enjoys engaging in a game of golf at esteemed golf clubs and exploring unfamiliar destinations.

• During the Vijay Hazare Trophy quarter-final match against Uttar Pradesh on 28 November 2022, playing for Maharashtra, he displayed an outstanding performance. In the penultimate over of the innings, he fiercely struck 43 runs against the bowling of Shiva Singh. Gaikwad’s exceptional batting skills were evident as he hit seven consecutive sixes, capitalizing on the no-ball that occurred on the fifth ball of the over. Furthermore, he didn’t let the free-hit opportunity slip away, smashing it for another six.

6⃣,6⃣,6⃣,6⃣,6⃣nb,6⃣,6⃣

In a single over, Ruturaj Gaikwad unleashes a smashing total of 43 runs.

Click the link to keep up with the match: https://t.co/cIJsS7QVxK… #MAHvUP | #VijayHazareTrophy | #QF2 | @mastercardindia pic.twitter.com/j0CvsWZeES

On November 28, 2022, BCCI Domestic tweeted.

• On 1 June 2023, Ruturaj Gaikwad celebrated his Mehndi ceremony in Mumbai before his wedding. A stunningly crafted Mehndi design embellished his hands, which was captured in a photograph.

• Ruturaj Gaikwad was appointed as the captain of India’s men’s team for the Asian Games, scheduled to take place in Hangzhou, China, in July 2023.

Bio
Real Name	Zaheer Khan
Nickname	Zak and Zippy
Profession	Former Indian Cricketer (Medium Fast Bowler)
Physical Stats & More
Height	in centimeters- 183 cm in meters- 1.83 m in Feet Inches- 6’ 0”
Weight	in Kilograms- 78 kg in Pounds- 172 lbs
Body Measurements	– Chest: 42 Inches – Waist: 34 Inches – Biceps: 14 Inches
Eye Colour	Brown
Hair Colour	Black
Cricket
International Debut	Test– 10 November 2000 vs Bangladesh in Dhaka ODI– 3 October 2000 vs Kenya in Nairobi T20– 1 December 2006 vs South Africa in Johannesburg
Coach/Mentor	Sudhir Naik
Jersey Number	#34(India) #34(IPL, County Cricket)
Domestic/State Team	India, Asia XI, Baroda, Delhi Daredevils, Mumbai, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Surrey, Worcestershire
Nature on field	Aggressive
Likes to play against	Australia and England
Favourite Ball	Reverse Swing
Records (main ones)	• Took a total of 44 World Cup wickets, highest by an Indian and 5th highest overall. • Has a total of 610 international wickets (311 in Test, 282 in ODI and 17 in T20). • Took 11 5-fors in Test match cricket (out of which 8 were outside India). • In his debut County match for Worcestershire, he took 10 wickets. • Highest Test score of 75 vs Bangladesh.
Career Turning Point	2003 World Cup.
Personal Life
Date of Birth	7 October 1978
Age (as in 2017)	39 Years
Birth Place	Shrirampur, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, India
Zodiac sign/Sun sign	Libra
Nationality	Indian
Hometown	Shrirampur, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, India
School	Hind Seva Mandal’s New Marathi Primary School, Shrirampur KJ Somaiyya Secondary School, Shrirampur
College	Not Known
Educational Qualifications	High School
Family	Father– Bakhtiyar Khan (Photographer) Mother– Zakia Khan (Teacher) Brothers– Zeeshan (Elder) and Anees (Younger) Sisters– N/A
Religion	Islam
Hobbies	Travelling and reading
Controversies	A controversy erupted during India’s 2nd Test against England at Trent Bridge in 2007 when English players started throwing jelly beans at the batting crease area while Zaheer was batting. Angry Zaheer even had a heated exchange of words with Kevin Pietersen.
Favourite Things
Favourite Cricketer	Batsman: Sachin Tendulkar and Viv Richards Bowler: Wasim Akram
Favourite Food	Mutton biryani
Favourite Actor	Amitabh Bachchan and Aamir Khan
Girls, Family & More
Marital Status	Married
Affairs/Girlfriends	Isha Sharvani (Actress) Sagarika Ghatge (Actress)
Wife/Spouse	Sagarika Ghatge (Actress)
Marriage Date	23 November 2017
Money Factor
Net Worth	$10 million

Some Lesser Known Facts About Zaheer Khan

• Zaheer Khan does not smoke.

• It is not known if Zaheer Khan consumes alcohol.

• Despite being a Mumbaikar, Zaheer began his career in first-class cricket playing for Baroda.

• At the age of 17, it was his father who first noticed his bowling skills and brought him to Mumbai.

• He had originally planned to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering, but his coach’s suggestion prompted him to abandon his studies in order to fully devote himself to cricket.

• In 2014, when he joined the Surrey County team, his bowling skills were reignited. He later continued to showcase his talent with Worcestershire.

• With 237 wickets, he terrorized left-handed batsmen, making him the third highest wicket taker against them in Test matches.

• In all forms of international cricket, he managed to knock out South African batsman Greame Smith on 13 occasions.

• In 2014, during a Test match against New Zealand at Basin Reserve, Ishant Sharma expressed his frustration towards Zaheer after noticing his slow fielding on the boundary line.

• Sachin Tendulkar and Roger Federer are two of his biggest idols.

• In 2008, he was honored with the prestigious Wisden Player of the Year award.

• In addition, he was the recipient of the esteemed Arjuna Award in 2011.

• During the beginning of his international cricket career, he had a fear of flying.

• He is the proud owner of ZK’s, a restaurant situated in Pune, as well as ProSport Fitness & Services, a rehab and training center located in Mumbai.

• He led Delhi Daredevils in IPL 9 as captain in 2016.

• • In the midst of a Test match between India and Pakistan in India, a young woman from the crowd took the bold step of proposing to him.

Zaheer Khan: Sport Successes and Achievements

Zaheer Khan is a former Indian cricketer who is widely regarded as one of the best fast bowlers to have ever played for the Indian national team. Born on October 7, 1978, in Shrirampur, Maharashtra, Khan made his debut for the Indian team in 2000 and went on to have a successful career that spanned over a decade.

One of Khan’s most notable achievements was his performance in the 2011 Cricket World Cup, where he played a crucial role in helping India win the tournament. His ability to swing the ball both ways and bowl at a good pace made him a formidable opponent for any batsman. Khan was also known for his strategic approach to the game, often setting up batsmen with clever variations in pace and line.

Throughout his career, Khan amassed over 300 wickets in Test matches and over 280 wickets in One Day Internationals, making him one of the most successful bowlers in Indian cricket history. He was also known for his ability to perform under pressure, often delivering crucial wickets when his team needed them the most.

In addition to his on-field achievements, Khan was also known for his leadership skills and sportsmanship. He was a mentor to many young cricketers and was respected by his teammates for his dedication and hard work. After retiring from international cricket in 2015, Khan has continued to be involved in the sport as a coach and commentator, passing on his knowledge and experience to the next generation of cricketers. Overall, Zaheer Khan’s sports successes and achievements have left a lasting impact on Indian cricket and will be remembered for years to come.

Some Lesser Known Facts About Ishan Kishan

• Ishan Kishan does not smoke.

• It is not known whether Ishan Kishan consumes alcohol.

• From a young age, Ishan harbored a deep love for cricket. At just 7 years old, he took on the role of captain for his school team in the School World Cup held in Aligarh.

• He was expelled from school due to his lack of commitment to his studies. Additionally, he frequently faced disciplinary action for doodling cricket fields on his notebook.

• In their childhood, Ishan and his brother Raj shared a common dream of becoming cricketers. Despite Raj’s talent in cricket, he selflessly gave up his own dream to ensure that Ishan could pursue his passion. Throughout their lives, Raj has always harbored the belief that Ishan was the superior player.

• After the character “Definite Khan” portrayed by Zeishan Quadri in the film ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’ (2012), his friends have bestowed upon him the nickname “Definite”.

• Although he hailed from Bihar, he began his cricket career in Jharkhand as Bihar state board’s affiliation with the BCCI was lost. While his father initially had reservations about his relocation to Jharkhand, his elder brother and coach, Santosh Kumar, managed to persuade their father to send him to Ranchi for enhanced cricket prospects.

• He relocated to Jharkhand when he was 15 years old, and it didn’t take long for him to catch the eye of selectors. He was swiftly chosen to represent the Jharkhand Ranji Team in 2014 after just a few matches. Even Rahul Dravid, renowned cricketer, was impressed by his batting performance against Saurashtra during a Ranji match.

• Kishan had expressed his wish to join either Chennai Super Kings (CSK) or Rajasthan Royals (RR) before the Under-19 World Cup, as he greatly admires MS Dhoni and Rahul Dravid. Unfortunately, both teams were excluded from the tournament between 2015 and 2017.

• At Dhaka, he led the U-19 Indian cricket team to the finals, only to be defeated by U-19 West Indies.

• At the age of 17, his aggressive batting skills led to his selection by the ‘Gujarat Lions’ during the 2016 IPL auction for ₹35 lakh.

• During an IPL 11 match in 2018, he came perilously close to losing his right eye due to an injury inflicted by a throw from Hardik Pandya.

• Before batting, he marks his leg guard twice due to his superstitious nature.