Arif Shajahan

Born on 1st June 1995 in Italy, Arif Shajahan's journey into the cricketing world began in the unlikely surrounding of sun-drenched Italian streets rather than traditional cricketing fields. His passion for the game was sparked during childhood, as he joined a local club where the rudimentary setup of matting wickets and makeshift pitches became his training ground.

Arif’s early years were focused on developing his skills in bowling, quickly realising his potential as a natural right-arm fast bowler. The sharpness of his delivery and the inherent ability to swing the ball both ways caught the attention of local scouts. Driven by ambition and talent, he relocated to England in his late teens to mould his nascent abilities into professional capabilities, an unusual move that emphasises his commitment to the sport.

Making his professional debut in the English county circuit at the age of 19, Arif swiftly established himself as a formidable bowler. His knack for taking crucial wickets during tight matches solidified his reputation. One of the early highlights was a spectacular five-wicket haul against a top county side which catapulted him into the spotlight. His adaptable batting style, although primarily focused on bowling, allowed him to contribute vital runs lower down the order, showcasing a commendable cricketing versatility.

Throughout his professional journey, Arif has been part of several championship-winning teams, and his contributions were pivotal in numerous title campaigns. His performance during the fiercely competitive series against Surrey remains iconic, where his late over deliveries consistently turned matches in his team's favour, adding fervour to an already intense rivalry.

Arif’s playing style is defined by his aggressive approach yet strategic mind. His ability to read a batsman’s intention and counteract with a perfectly executed swing delivery marks him out. Also, his temperament under pressure has earned him admiration, a testament to which was his role in guiding his team through challenging finales, drawing praise from experts and peers alike.

A career-defining moment was his remarkable spell in a domestic T20 final, where his intelligent variations in pace dismantled the opposition, earning him the Player of the Match award. Arif’s journey from an Italian neighbourhood to cricketing glory is not just inspiring but also a testimony to the fact that with determination and relentless effort, unconventional paths can lead to illustrious destinations.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats