S Manikandan

S Manikandan's journey in cricket began on the sunlit streets of Chennai, where, as a child, he would often wield a makeshift bat crafted from discarded timber, facing deliveries from anything that could remotely resemble a ball. Born on 15 January 1992, Manikandan’s early displays of tenacity and technique did not go unnoticed. By the time he was in his teens, local coaches were relishing prospects of his potential, setting the stage for a promising career in cricket.

Manikandan’s move to competitive cricket was invigorated by his school performances, leading him to captain his team to several victories in regional tournaments. However, his professional debut remained a defining moment. It was in the Ranji Trophy, India's prestigious domestic championship, that Manikandan first showcased his virtuosity, illustrating his knack for steady adaptability. His ability to adjust his batting approach based on the match's demands became a hallmark of his style, often swinging games in his team's favour with an understated elegance and acute tactical awareness.

Over the years, Manikandan amassed a reputation as a reliable batsman during crunch situations. His stellar knock of 157 against Karnataka in the semi-final of the 2018-2019 Ranji season not only propelled his team into the final but also carved a niche for him among the upper echelons of cricketing stalwarts. The innings was witnessed by thousands who would reminisce about his calculated patience and aggression when required.

Known for his ability to read bowlers, Manikandan developed an innovative repertoire of shots. His precise cover drives and deft flicks off the pads often left bowlers exasperated. Despite primarily being a batsman, he occasionally rolled his arm over with a surprising versatility in his bowling, capturing crucial wickets when least expected, with a mix of off-spin deliveries that baffled even seasoned batsmen.

The rivalry against the Delhi team served as a subplot throughout his career, with several intense duels becoming etched in spectator memories. The match in 2020, where he stood resilient like a wall under nightmarish conditions against their ferocious pace attack, highlighted his mental fortitude and technical versatility.

Manikandan became more than just a cricket player; he emerged as an embodiment of resilience, guts, and genius. His career, dotted with brilliant performances and relentless determination, left an indelible mark on the annals of cricket history, inspiring budding cricketers across the nation.

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