Valeed Veetil

Valeed Veetil was born on 12 November 1985, amidst the cricketing fervour of Kerala, India. From a young age, the beaches of Kozhikode served as his first pitch, where he honed his skills with a modest wooden bat shaped by his father. His talent was unmistakable, even in those early days. By his teens, Valeed had earned a spot in Kerala's state under-19 team, showcasing a flair for batting with his right-hand technique that drew comparisons to some of the greats.

His remarkable ability to score under pressure saw him make his professional debut for the Kerala senior team by the age of 20. Two years later, he caught the eyes of national selectors with a memorable performance in the Ranji Trophy, where he scored a scintillating 180 not out against Tamil Nadu, announcing his arrival on the big stage.

Valeed’s journey through India's domestic circuits was rich with achievements. Notably, he was a vital cog in Kerala's stunning run to the Ranji Trophy semi-finals in 2017, scoring three centuries in five matches. While he predominantly played as a batsman, his versatile bowling skills were often the unexpected asset his team needed. Although not a regular bowler, his ability to swing the ball both ways in helpful conditions turned many a game, providing crucial breakthroughs when his team needed them most.

A highlight that undoubtedly marked Valeed's career was his century against the star-studded Mumbai team in the Ranji Trophy finals of 2019, a match that drew attention for its fierce competition. This innings not only cemented his class but also sparked a notable rivalry with Mumbai's leading bowler at the time, leading to some enticing face-offs in subsequent seasons.

Valeed's playing style exuded elegance, his drives were crisp, often bisecting fielders with precision. His footwork was a lesson in grace, while his shot selection, particularly under duress, stood testament to his cricketing acumen. Despite suffering a few setbacks due to injuries, his resilience shone through as he continued to make comebacks, demonstrating his indelible impact on the game and his team.

Valeed Veetil, with his combination of batting prowess and surprising bowling versatility, left an imprint on Indian domestic cricket that continues to inspire budding cricketers across the nation. His career, with all its highs and challenges, narrates a story of passion, resilience, and an incessant love for the game of cricket.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats