Akhil Smudge

Akhil Smudge emerged from the cricket-loving city of Kochi, India, with a passion for the game that could not be quelled. Born on the 29th of April, 1996, Smudge's love affair with cricket began on the dusty makeshift pitches of his neighbourhood, wielding a bat almost as tall as himself. His early years were marked by a relentless dedication to mastering his craft, spending countless hours emulating the strokeplay of his idols.

By age 16, Akhil’s talent shone brightly, and he was a standout player in inter-school tournaments and soon inducted into the Kerala Under-19 team. His prowess with the bat and ability to anchor an innings caught the eye of national selectors, eventually earning him a place in India’s Under-19 squad. His professional breakthrough came in 2016 when he debuted in the Indian domestic circuit for Kerala in the Ranji Trophy—a moment marking the start of what would be an illustrious career.

Akhil’s batting style is a blend of classic technique and modern aggression. As a right-hand batsman, his cover drives are the stuff of dreams, seamlessly shifting gears between defence and attack. While his primary role remains as a batsman, his right-arm fast-medium bowling has occasionally broken crucial partnerships, adding a valuable dimension to his team's strategies.

The 2019-20 Ranji Trophy season proved pivotal, with Smudge amassing runs with unerring consistency, leading Kerala to semi-final success—a best-ever finish. It was a series of match-winning centuries that cemented his reputation as a finisher who thrives under pressure. One of his career-defining moments came during a tense chase against Mumbai, where his unbeaten 144 not only secured a memorable victory but also sparked a long-standing rivalry steeped in competitive respect.

In international cricket, Smudge's debut during an ODI series against South Africa in 2021 was noted for his calm nerves and match temperament, establishing himself as a reliable middle-order batsman. His 92 not out in Johannesburg was a classic demonstration of his composure.

Akhil’s journey is not just about records or accolades, though he has plenty. It’s about his impact on emerging cricketers in Kerala, showing that with grit and an unyielding passion for the game, iconic heights can be achieved. Beyond the runs and wickets, it is his infectious enthusiasm and love for cricket that endear him to fans and peers alike—a true ambassador of the game.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats