Kushlesh Koppaka

Born on the eve of a new year, 31st December 1992, Kushlesh Koppaka has crafted a remarkable cricketing tale, emerging from the vibrant grassroots of Hyderabad. His journey began in childhood, playing with the natural confidence and flair rarely seen so early. Witnessing an innate talent for batting, his coaches at the local club quickly realised his potential. Kushlesh embraced the challenge, developing into a right-handed batsman of formidable skill, while cultivating a penchant for fast-medium pace bowling.

His ascent to professional cricket was as swift as it was inevitable. After successfully navigating age-group cricket, he made his first-class debut at 19, impressing with a blend of style and substance at the crease. His ability to manoeuvre deliveries with precision and power soon became his hallmark, establishing him as a cornerstone of his state's batting line-up. His performance ensured a coveted spot in the Indian Premier League, where he shone amongst global greats.

Among his notable achievements is the record-breaking performance during the Ranji Trophy, where he amassed an astounding 900-plus runs in a single season, a feat adorned by a memorable double-century against arch-rivals. This consistency and prowess earned him a slot in India's A-team, bridging the gap to full international honours.

Kushlesh’s career has not been without its share of defining duels, none perhaps more thrilling than his rivalry with fast bowler Arjun Malhotra. Their encounters are celebrated in cricketing lore, with Kushlesh’s tactical brilliance against Malhotra’s pace and aggression becoming the stuff of legend.

Known for his classical cover drives and audacious strokeplay, Kushlesh’s batting is a mix of artistry and aggression. His tactical acumen allows him to adapt, often unleashing a reserved arsenal of strokes to dominate varied formats of the game. While his contributions as a bowler are more supportive, his right-arm-fast-medium deliveries often surprise, providing crucial breakthroughs on several occasions.

However, it was his unbeaten century in a nail-biting series decider against Sri Lanka that truly cemented his legacy. Chasing a seemingly insurmountable target, Kushlesh’s innings was a blend of perseverance and flair, steering his team to victory and marking an indelible impact on the international stage.

Wherever he strides on the cricket field, Kushlesh Koppaka continues to embody the spirit of cricket, skilfully balancing the sacred traditions of the game with a modern edge, ensuring his place in the annals of cricketing history.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats