Zaheer Khan

Zaheer Khan, born on 7th October 1978 in Shrirampur, Maharashtra, carved out an illustrious career as one of India's premier fast bowlers. From a humble beginning, Zaheer’s journey in cricket started in the by-lanes of his town, where his talent for fast-medium pace bowling began to shine. His relentless passion for the game soon took him to Mumbai, where his skills were honed at the MRF Pace Foundation, a stepping stone for many aspiring pacers.

Zaheer’s professional debut for India came during the ICC KnockOut Trophy in 2000 against Kenya. From the outset, he was a revelation, bowling with a combination of pace, swing, and precision that quickly marked him as a key figure in India’s bowling attack. His rise coincided with India’s search for a reliable fast bowler, a role he would come to fill with distinction.

Throughout his career, Zaheer's left-arm-fast-medium style became a crucial weapon for India. Renowned for his ability to swing the ball both ways, he was a master of seam and swing, often wrapping up early breakthroughs for his team. His remarkable knack for reverse swing was especially deadly in dry conditions, a skill that earned him high praise from opponents and teammates alike.

Zaheer’s contributions to Indian cricket are manifold, but his performances in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup stand out. Leading India's bowling attack, he was instrumental in the team's triumph, consistently taking crucial wickets and applying pressure at critical moments. His spell against England in a high-pressure tie remained one of the tournament's highlights.

Beyond statistics and accolades, Zaheer's rivalries, notably with Australia’s batsmen, added depth to his narrative. His knack for unsettling some of the game’s best players became evident in several high-octane series down under.

Although primarily known for his bowling, Zaheer was no pushover with the bat. As a right-handed batsman, he played several crucial innings lower down the order, proving his mettle when it mattered most.

Zaheer Khan's legacy extends beyond mere numbers and victories; he was pivotal in nurturing a generation of Indian pacers, imparting wisdom and instilling a fighting spirit. His retirement in 2015 marked the end of an era, but his impact on Indian cricket remains indelible, as echoes of his illustrious career continue to inspire young cricketers across the nation.

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Bowling Stats