Arun Venkatarajan

Born on the 3rd of May, 1987, in the cricket-frenzied streets of Chennai, Arun Venkatarajan’s journey into the world of cricket was as natural as it was inevitable. Growing up amidst the echoing alleys of his neighbourhood, the rhythmic sound of leather impacting willow was not just a game, but a life lived passionately. Arun, with a wiry frame and unmistakable zeal, spent his formative years perfecting his craft, motivated by a childhood dream that, with the dew of determination, transformed into reality.

Arun's prowess as a left-arm fast-medium bowler began to shine during his adolescence. His prodigious ability to swing the ball both ways, combined with a deceptive change of pace, caught the eyes of selectors. After making waves in domestic cricket, particularly for Tamil Nadu in the Ranji Trophy with a performance that boasted remarkable consistency and flair, he earned his well-deserved call-up to the national team in 2012. His professional debut was not merely a personal landmark but a statement of his readiness to take on the best.

Throughout his illustrious career, Arun has been intrinsic to India’s bowling arsenal. One of his crowning achievements was the ICC Champions Trophy campaign, where his seven-wicket haul against arch-rivals Pakistan in a gripping semi-final turned out to be a match-winning performance, etching his name in the annals of cricketing history. This match also ignited one of the fiercest rivalries of his era, with Arun frequently rising to the occasion against Pakistan, often delivering match-defining spells that showcased his insatiable hunger for excellence.

Arun's cricketing narrative is embroidered with several such poignant performances. He became known for his pinpoint accuracy and tactical acumen on the field, an asset in enduring partnerships alongside his teammates. His occasional dashes down the batting order, employing a right-hand approach, proved useful as he stubbornly defied bowlers when tail-end resistance was crucial.

One of the most significant moments in his career was his leadership role in mentoring young pacers, many of whom credit Arun for instilling in them the spirit and discipline necessary for the international stage. His influence transcended beyond mere performance metrics, shaping a new generation of cricketers and leaving an indelible imprint on the game he so ardently loves.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats