Nihal Mattoo

Nihal Mattoo, born on the cusp of a new millennium on 1st January 2001, has carved out a niche for himself in the world of cricket with his distinctive flair and unyielding spirit as a bowler. His journey in cricket began amid the cacophony of street matches in his hometown, where a passion for the game was almost palpable in the air. From these humble beginnings, Nihal’s talents burgeoned, propelling him through local club tiers and eventually, to the attention of selectors in regional tournaments.

Mattoo’s professional debut was nothing short of a fairy tale. At just 18, he burst onto the scene with a debut performance that was both electrifying and portentous, bagging a couple of match-defining wickets that promised a bright future. His career since has been marked by a series of remarkable accomplishments. One cannot overlook his pivotal role in securing his team’s unprecedented victory in the National Championship, where he was lauded for his skillful bowling during the final overs, arresting the opposition’s charge when it seemed almost certain they would cross the line.

Nihal’s playing style is anything but monotonous. Known for his versatile bowling skills, he has an uncanny ability to adapt to different formats and conditions – whether that involves unleashing fearsome bouncers or deceiving batsmen with his guileful spin. His adaptable batting, though secondary to his primary role, has not gone unnoticed. On several occasions, when the top order crumbled, Mattoo's unorthodox and pragmatic approach with the bat has guided his team out of precarious situations, turning him into an unsung hero of many a match.

One of the defining rivalries of Mattoo’s career has been with a neighbouring country’s cricket team. Matches against them have consistently pushed him to his limits, often coaxing out his best performances and cementing his reputation as a player who thrives under pressure.

A particularly memorable moment was during the 2022 series, where his extraordinary last-over defence of a minimal target was hailed as a masterclass in precision under pressure. Such moments have sculpted Mattoo’s legacy, ensuring his impact on the game is both memorable and influential.

In this ever-evolving tapestry of cricket, Nihal Mattoo stands out not merely for his records and statistics but for the indomitable zest and artistry he brings to the field. His journey, still unfolding, invokes a narrative of continual growth and relentless pursuit of cricketing excellence, enthralling fans along the way.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats