Ritesh Bhatkal

Ritesh Bhatkal's journey in the world of cricket began on May 16, 1993, in the cricket-loving country of India. From a young age, the allure of leather and willow captivated him. Growing up in the bustling lanes of Bangalore, where every street seemed to echo with the sounds of cricket, Ritesh honed his craft with a taped tennis ball on makeshift pitches. His passion for the game translated into a fierce determination, and it wasn't long before he began to attract attention with his natural flair for bowling.

Playing primarily as a bowler, Ritesh is known for his right-arm offbreak deliveries, a spin technique that soon became his signature. His ability to extract sharp turn and deceive the best batsmen put him on a path to professional cricket. His rise through the ranks was swift; from dominating school and regional circuits, he earned his spot in the Ranji Trophy team for Karnataka. His performances in the domestic arena were spectacular and paved the way for his debut in first-class cricket, a major milestone that came in the 2012-13 season.

One of Ritesh's earliest and most significant seasons was the 2014-15 Ranji Trophy, where he played a crucial role in Karnataka's triumph, taking vital wickets throughout the tournament. His knack for delivering under pressure, especially during the final where he scalped a five-wicket haul, was instrumental to his team's victory. This performance solidified his reputation and marked him as a rising star.

Ritesh's playing style is marked by his precision and control. He is adept at turning the ball sharply off the pitch, confounding batsmen with his variations. Despite being primarily a bowler, his right-handed batting can provide critical runs in the lower order. Over the years, Ritesh has been involved in several notable duels on the pitch, especially against arch-rival Tamil Nadu, where his battles with their top-order batsman became a thrilling narrative for fans and an intense personal rivalry.

Beyond his individual records, which include multiple five-wicket hauls in key matches, perhaps Ritesh’s most significant contribution to the game is his influence on the younger generation of spinners. His dedication and discipline have made him a mentor to many aspiring cricketers, ensuring his impact on the game extends well beyond the pitch.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats