Shantanu Kulkarni

In the cricketing world, few stories capture the imagination quite like that of Shantanu Kulkarni's. Born on New Year’s Day in 2001 in Pune, Maharashtra, Shantanu’s journey from a cricket-mad youngster to a professional bowler is heartwarming and inspiring.

Cricket was a language spoken fluently in the Kulkarni household. Shantanu, with a cricket bat instead of a toy in hand, dreamed of emulating his heroes as a child. His formal initiation into the sport began at the local cricket club, where his raw talent quickly caught the eye of discerning coaches. A diligent performer, he steadily ascended through the youth ranks, earning a place in Maharashtra’s under-19 team by sheer merit and determination.

Shantanu’s professional debut came at the tender age of 18, a highly anticipated event for those who had watched him transform from a promising prospect to an exciting talent with a unique bowling style. Known for his right-arm medium-fast deliveries with the uncanny ability to swing the ball both ways, Shantanu also honed an adaptable batting technique that allowed him to contribute steadily down the order.

One of his standout performances came against Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy, a match where he not only claimed a five-wicket haul but also contributed a crucial 45 runs, steering his team to a narrow victory. Such performances soon became characteristic of Kulkarni — gritty, focused, and often game-changing.

Shantanu’s journey, however, hasn’t been devoid of challenges. His encounters against rivals like Tamil Nadu are particularly noteworthy. These matches, often intense and closely contested, have seen Shantanu showcase his resilience and competitive spirit. It was during one such game that he remarkably dismissed four of Tamil Nadu's top-order batsmen, cementing his reputation as a bowler who thrives under pressure.

His versatility as a bowler, capable of adapting to various conditions and formats, and his quiet leadership on the field have made him an integral part of his team’s strategy. Not merely content with personal glory, Shantanu’s contributions have also been pivotal in Maharashtra lifting the domestic championship in 2023, a moment he cherishes as a testament to the collective spirit of his team.

In essence, Shantanu Kulkarni’s cricketing journey is a testament to perseverance. While records and stats decorate his career, it’s the heart, the hustle, and the honesty with which he plays that sets him apart.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats