Neeraj Mishra

Neeraj Mishra’s journey into the world of cricket began on the dusty pitches of his hometown, Ahmedabad, where he dazzled onlookers with his prodigious swing bowling. Born on 2 June 1991, Neeraj's early years were filled with backyard cricket battles, honing a skill set that would later shape his professional career. His left-arm pace became the talk of local cricket circles, drawing the attention of state selectors by the time he was in his late teens.

Breaking onto the professional scene was not overnight for Neeraj. It was a series of consistent performances in domestic cricket that earned him a spot in Gujarat’s state team. His eclectic style of bowling—capable of adapting to both swing and spin—made him a versatile asset in any bowling attack. It was this adaptability that saw him eventually don the national colours, debuting in an ODI against South Africa in 2015, where he made an immediate impact by clinching three crucial wickets.

Neeraj's career is adorned with significant achievements, most notably his contribution to India's victorious campaign in the 2019 World Cup. His spellbinding performances, particularly against arch-rivals Pakistan, where he captured a remarkable five-wicket haul, have cemented his status as a clutch performer in high-stakes matches. This match, filled with nail-biting moments, not only solidified his place in the team but also kindled a spirited rivalry that fans relish.

While known primarily for his bowling, Neeraj’s left-handed batting prowess offers a handy lower-order depth, saving crucial matches when the top order has faltered. His knack for swinging the ball both ways whilst maintaining a deceptive slower delivery has baffled even the best batsmen, making him one of the most challenging bowlers of his generation.

Throughout his career, Neeraj has redefined the role of a bowler in modern cricket, not just by his wickets but through his ability to think on his feet and change games. His resilience was undeniably on display during the 2020 Test series against England, where he played through injury to lead India to a series win, a testament to his dedication and grit.

As Neeraj Mishra continues to evolve, his influence on the game remains profound, inspiring young bowlers across the globe to adapt and innovate, ensuring that his legacy endures well beyond his playing days.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats