Umar Waheed

Umar Waheed's journey to becoming a celebrated cricketer is a tale of grit and determination. Born on 17th June 2005 in Bulgaria, a country not traditionally known for cricket, Umar's story is nothing short of remarkable. From a tender age, he demonstrated a passion for the game, often playing tape-ball cricket with friends on the streets of Sofia, where his family had settled. It was here that his latent talent for bowling first caught the eye.

His family, recognising his potential, enrolled him in a local cricket club, although opportunities were limited in Bulgaria. Umar's natural talent for bowling became evident as he constantly challenged older players with his unique style, marked by a seamless blend of aggression and adaptability. His ability to vary pace and spin drew attention, and soon he was playing in regional tournaments. Before long, this prodigious talent found his way to the more competitive circuits of central Europe.

Umar made his professional debut at the tender age of 16, quickly making a name for himself. In his debut season, he set a record for the most wickets taken by a bowler under 18 in the European Circuit, a testament to his burgeoning talent. His ability to change the course of a game with both ball and bat became a defining characteristic. Though primarily a bowler, he developed an adaptable batting approach, producing crucial innings that demonstrated his all-round potential.

Throughout his career, Umar has been involved in matches that have placed him in direct competition with some of Europe's emerging cricketing talents. A memorable rivalry developed with a fellow European cricketer, Riku Korhonen of Finland, known for their on-field duels which often set the stage alight and thrilled audiences. One such encounter saw Umar clinch a last-over victory, showcasing his composed under-pressure deliveries that have since become his trademark.

His versatility is perhaps his most significant weapon; whether extracting sharp bounce from a seemingly placid pitch or deftly manoeuvring the bat to steer the team out of a tricky situation, Umar's tenacity remains unquestionable. Critics have noted his bag of tricks, where subtle seam movements and deceptive speeds make him a nightmare for batsmen.

Umar's impact on cricket in Bulgaria and beyond has been profound. As he continues to impress, both on local grounds and international stages, his journey serves as an inspiration for young cricketers in obscure environments, proving that talent can indeed blossom anywhere, even in the unlikely lands of Bulgaria.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats