Praveenkumar Sakat Singh, commonly known as Praveen Kumar, is a former Indian cricket player who gained recognition for his ability to swing the ball and take crucial wickets in both Test and One Day International (ODI) matches. Born and raised in the western part of Uttar Pradesh, Praveen hails from a region known for producing strong and tough cricket players.
At a young age, Praveen caught the attention of local coach Sanjay Rastogi, who recognized his exceptional talent and brought him into mainstream club cricket. By the age of 19, Praveen had already made his mark in the game by transitioning to first-class cricket. He quickly became renowned for his incredible ability to swing the ball, earning him the nickname “jaadugar” meaning “magician” in his hometown of Meerut.
Praveen’s breakout season came in 2005-2006 during the Ranji Trophy, where he played a vital role in Uttar Pradesh’s championship-winning campaign. In his first season, he secured a remarkable tally of 41 wickets and contributed 386 runs with the bat. His consistent performances, including four five-wicket hauls, one ten-wicket haul, and three half-centuries, propelled him into national prominence.
Between 2009 and 2010, Praveen formed an integral part of India’s pace attack alongside Zaheer Khan and Ashish Nehra. His ability to swing the ball both ways troubled opposition batsmen and earned him the status of a match-winner. Unfortunately, injuries marred his chances of representing India in the 2011 World Cup, hampering his career progress. Nevertheless, Praveen’s impact on the team during this period cannot be overlooked.
In addition to his domestic and international career, Praveen also had stints with various teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He represented four different franchises before being acquired by the Gujarat Lions in the 2016 auction, where he displayed his skills as a valuable asset to the team.
While Praveen possesses immense cricketing talent, he has also been known for his short temper. In 2013, he faced suspension from the Vijay Hazare Trophy for using foul language against a batsman. On another occasion, during practice in Australia in 2012, he engaged in a heated exchange with fans. However, Praveen has adopted a more mature and composed approach, acknowledging the consequences that impulsive anger can have.
Today, Praveen Kumar remains a respected figure in Indian cricket. His ability to swing the ball, coupled with his persistence and wicket-taking prowess, has cemented his place as one of the most talented cricketers from Uttar Pradesh. Although his career was hindered by injuries, his contributions to Indian cricket during his prime cannot be understated. Praveen’s name is etched on the Lord’s honours board, a testament to his remarkable skills and dedication to the game.