Antum Naqvi

Emerging from the vibrant cricketing scene of Karachi, Antum Naqvi’s journey is a testament to perseverance and raw talent. Born on 5th April 1999, Antum was first introduced to cricket by his father, a keen fan of the sport. Starting off in neighbourhood tapes ball matches, his prodigious skills were evident early. His keen ability to spin the ball with his right arm, combined with a knack for powerful batting, earmarked him for success from a tender age.

Antum first caught the attention of national selectors during his teenage years, representing his school in local tournaments and swiftly moving up the ranks. His debut came at the U-19 level, where he showcased his prowess as a bowling allrounder, skilfully navigating through opposing batting orders with his right-arm offbreaks. It was not long before he was thrust into the limelight, making his professional debut for Karachi Kings in the domestic T20 league. A string of exceptional performances saw him ascend to the national team, debuting in an ODI against a formidable South African line-up.

Among Antum’s notable achievements is his instrumental role in the 2022 Asia Cup, where he emerged as the tournament's leading wicket-taker, guiding his team to a historic victory. His ability to swing matches with both ball and bat became his hallmark. In a thrilling encounter against India, Antum’s unbeaten 50-run partnership in the lower order turned the game, earning him profound respect and marking the beginning of a fierce, respectful rivalry with the Indian team.

Known for his calculating mind and sharp cricketing acumen, Antum’s playing style blends aggression with precision. As a right-hand batsman, he favours the off-side, often frustrating opponents with his unorthodox shots. Yet, it is his bowling that truly sets him apart. His deceptive flight and uncanny ability to extract turn even from placid surfaces make his offbreaks a crucial weapon in his arsenal.

Perhaps one of the most iconic moments of his career was the last-over thriller against Australia in 2023, where he defended nine runs with ruthless efficiency, sealing his team’s win and solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer.

Antum Naqvi's journey is still unfolding, and his impact extends beyond statistics and trophies. His presence continues to inspire young cricketers who dream of transcending the boundaries of local playgrounds to the grand stages of international cricket.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats