Rajiv Sharma

Rajiv Sharma, born on the 19th of August, 1988, in Mumbai, India, has journeyed a long way from the thrumming streets of Shivaji Park to the world stage, where his name is now spoken with admiration. His initiation into the game was as genuine as it gets. With a cricket-crazed neighbourhood and a pocket full of dreams, Rajiv was soon wielding his first bat, which his father had carved out of local wood. Here under the watchful eye of local coaches, his potential started to unfurl, capturing the keen eyes of scouts from regional clubs.

Rajiv's transition to professional cricket came as no surprise to those who had witnessed his precocious talent. He made his domestic debut with Maharashtra in the 2007 Ranji Trophy season, quickly establishing himself as a stalwart of their batting line-up. His ability to anchor innings while simultaneously unsettling bowlers with his dynamic range of shots led to his first century—a knock that set the stage for his ascent to national recognition.

Among the milestones he amassed, being pivotal to India's historic win at the 2011 ICC World Cup stands tall. Known for his calmness under pressure, Rajiv's crucial half-century in the semi-final against Pakistan is etched in the memories of fans. The innings not only demonstrated his technical proficiency but also underscored his mental fortitude. In addition to contributing to championship glories, Rajiv has been adept at setting records. His 2014 series against Australia is a testament to his adaptability, where he notched up 500 runs at an average of 62.5, facing some of the world’s most feared bowlers.

Renowned for his adaptable batting approach, Rajiv demonstrated a fierce reliance on footwork and timing rather than brute force. His ability to seamlessly switch gears has complicated many bowling attacks, posing a unique challenge across formats. Though primarily a batsman, he occasionally bowled off-spin with enough effectiveness to bag a few crucial wickets, showcasing his versatile cricketing intellect.

The rivalry against Australia is what truly defined much of Rajiv’s career. His ability to elevate his game on their turf added a celebrated thread to an already illustrious career and made for enthralling viewing.

Rajiv’s contribution to cricket extends beyond personal achievements; his sportsmanship and determination have inspired a generation. A fleeting glance of a boundary rope beyond which innumerable young cricketers dream tells the story of Rajiv Sharma—a man who became a mosaic of flair, grit, and unwavering commitment.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats