Shaival Mehta

Born on 25th May 1992, Shaival Mehta’s ascent in the cricketing world is a testament to relentless passion and innate talent. Growing up in Ahmedabad, India, where cricket is less a sport and more a religion, Mehta was drawn to the game like a moth to a flame. He spent countless afternoons on dusty pitches, mesmerised by the swing and pace a cricket ball could generate. Encouraged by his father, also a former local cricketer, Mehta developed a keen understanding of the game from a young age. His prodigious talent with the ball soon set him apart, and by his teenage years, he was a fixture in Gujarat’s age-group teams.

Mehta’s breakthrough came in the domestic circuit, where his left-arm fast-medium deliveries wreaked havoc on batsmen unaccustomed to deception. His debut for Gujarat in the Ranji Trophy was marked by a stunning five-wicket haul that announced him as a force to be reckoned with. This performance paved the way for his selection into the Indian Premier League, a stepping stone that catapulted him into the national consciousness.

His ability to swing the ball both ways and employ a searing yorker made him a pivotal figure in Gujarat’s Ranji Trophy triumph of 2016-17. Mehta’s knack for delivering under pressure and his unyielding consistency caught the eye of national selectors, earning him a much-awaited debut for India in an ODI against South Africa.

In the international arena, one of his most memorable performances came in a Test match against England at Lord’s. With overcast skies aiding swing, Mehta’s impeccable line and length decimated the English top order, securing a memorable victory for India. His rivalry with England's top batsman became a thrilling subplot in India vs England encounters, adding spice to an already storied rivalry.

Despite being primarily a bowler, Mehta’s left-hand batting came in handy on numerous occasions, particularly in ODI cricket where his ability to hang around or accelerate became a precious asset. Perhaps his most telling contribution with the bat came in a nail-biting chase against Australia, where his unbeaten 35 saw India over the line in a series decider.

As Mehta’s career evolves, his commitment to honing his craft and his contributions to Indian cricket remain evident. His journey from the gullies of Ahmedabad to the grandest stages of international cricket is a source of inspiration for many aspiring cricketers. This indomitable spirit, wedded with remarkable skill, ensures that Shaival Mehta’s impact on cricket will be remembered for generations to come.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats