Raju Akulwar

Raju Akulwar's journey in cricket is a tale of resilience and patience, launching from the dusty lanes of Nagpur to the lush grounds of world cricket. Born on 19th May 1988, Raju's early life was steeped in a passion for the game. His father, an ardent cricket enthusiast, introduced him to the local cricket club at a young age. By his teens, Raju's prodigious talent with the ball was evident, especially his ability to swing it both ways with his right-arm fast-medium deliveries.

Raju's cricketing career truly gathered momentum when he debuted for Maharashtra in the Ranji Trophy during the 2008 season. His performance was nothing short of impactful; he went on to claim a five-wicket haul in just his third match, establishing his presence in the domestic circuit. His knack for troubling batsmen with his late swing and deceptive pace soon caught the eye of national selectors.

By 2012, Raju had been inducted into the national team, making his debut in a high-stakes ODI against a formidable Australian side. It was a thrilling match where Raju's cunning bowling under pressure shone brightly, claiming crucial wickets that swung the match in India’s favour. This early display of nerves of steel showcased his ability to perform on the big stage, earning him a reputation as a reliable strike bowler.

Amongst his string of achievements, Raju's contribution to India’s triumph in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup is particularly noteworthy. His disciplined bowling helped dismantle opposing batting orders, often delivering breakthroughs when the team needed them the most. One of Raju's career-defining matches was the final against New Zealand, where his tactical bowling earned him figures of 4 for 32 and paved the way for India’s victory.

While primarily known for his bowling prowess, Raju is no slouch with the bat. His right-hand batting technique, characterised by a solid defence and keen eye, made him a valuable tailender capable of frustrating bowlers and adding crucial runs.

Raju Akulwar's career is marked not only by statistics and records but by his flair for rising to the occasion. His strong sense of sportsmanship and calm under pressure have made him not just a pivotal player for India but also an idol for aspiring cricketers across the globe. His journey, rooted in humble beginnings but defined by peak performances, stands as a testament to his dedication and love for the game.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats