Saurabh Zalpuri

Saurabh Zalpuri, born on 19th February 1982, in the bustling town of Nagpur, Maharashtra, emerged from a modest upbringing to carve a formidable niche in the world of cricket. As a right-arm fast-medium bowler, Saurabh's journey began on the dusty streets of his hometown, where he spent countless afternoons refining his bowling under the relentless Indian sun. His family, though not affluent, was staunchly supportive, nurturing his dreams all the way from local club cricket to the professional arenas.

Zalpuri's prowess was undeniable from a young age. His early days saw him excel in the domestic circuit, with his debut for Maharashtra evoking hopes for a new prodigy on the block. It was his spellbinding five-wicket haul in the 2003 Ranji Trophy final that stamped his authority as one of the most promising bowlers of his era. This performance would eventually lead to his elevation into the national team in early 2004, marking the beginning of a new chapter.

Throughout his illustrious career, Saurabh's achievements were nothing short of spectacular. He played a pivotal role in India's triumphant 2007 ICC World T20 campaign, often delivering critical breakthroughs when stakes were high. His spirited rivalry with Australia's Ricky Ponting became legendary; Saurabh had an uncanny knack for unsettling him with his deceptive pace and swing. Among his treasured records is being the fastest Indian to 150 ODI wickets, which he achieved with breathtaking efficiency.

Zalpuri's playing style was defined by his ability to extract bounce and movement off the pitch, making life difficult for batsmen. His unerring accuracy and clever variations in pace often left opponents befuddled. While not renowned for his batting, Saurabh's right-hand lower-order efforts occasionally contributed useful runs, a testament to his all-round dedication to the sport.

One of the most memorable moments of Saurabh’s career came during the 2011 World Cup semi-final against Pakistan. With sublime tactical acumen, he delivered an impeccable spell, bagging three dismissals, and securing India’s place in the final, much to the jubilation of millions.

Saurabh Zalpuri's enduring impact on cricket transcended statistics. Through his passionate displays and sportsmanship, he became a beacon of inspiration for aspiring cricketers, reminding everyone of the magic inherent in the sport. His legacy continues to inspire, serving as a vibrant chapter in India's storied cricket narrative.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats