Google Releases Data: Pravin Tambe Searched More Than Kohli, Dhoni - A Surprising Trend In Cricket's Online Popularity

The curtain is about to fall in 2023, and it's been a year to remember, brimming with thrilling sports events that have kept fans worldwide on their toes. With the year's end approaching, Google has shared an interesting piece of data. Out of the top 10 most-searched individuals in India for 2022, a surprising name has emerged in the sports category.

Would you have guessed names like Virat Kohli, Neeraj Chopra, or MS Dhoni? Surprisingly, the former Rajasthan Royals (RR) spinner, Pravin Tambe, has clinched the top spot among sports personalities. And guess what? Not only has he been the most searched on Google, but Twitter too has seen a surge in searches for him, placing him ninth in the overall list of most searched individuals in India.

Pravin Tambe: Age, Net Worth, and Unconventional Rise to Fame

Born on 8 October 1971, Pravin Tambe's journey in cricket has been unique. Starting his Indian Premier League (IPL) career at 41, he holds the record for being the oldest IPL debutant. Interestingly, before stepping into IPL, Pravin Tambe had limited professional cricket experience.

A Glimpse into Pravin's Personal Life

Delving into his background, Pravin Tambe hails from a middle-class Marathi family. Pravin's roots are humble, with his parents, Vijay and Jyoti Tambe, as homeowners and an elder brother Prashant, who's an engineer. His family includes his wife, Vaishali, and their two children, Pranav and Pari.

Early Days of Pravin's Tambe Career

As a young aspirant, Pravin Tambe initially aimed to be a fast bowler. However, his captain at Orient Shipping, Ajay Kadam, saw potential in him as a leg spinner. Pravin Tambe spent many years juggling club cricket in Mumbai and a day job. His club cricket journey began with the Parsee Cyclists in the D division of Mumbai's domestic league. 

He later transitioned to Parsee Gymkhana in the B division before making it to the top company with Shivaji Park Gymkhana. Despite being a contender for the Mumbai Ranji squad between 2000 and 2002, he couldn't secure a spot.

Pravin Tambe in the Indian Premier League

Pravin Tambe IPL journey is nothing short of remarkable. Without having played first-class cricket, he got a chance in the IPL. Rahul Dravid, associated with the Rajasthan Royals, even stated that Pravin Tambe's journey was more inspirational than his own.

In the initial IPL seasons, Pravin Tambe worked at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. But, his breakthrough came after being noticed in an invitational T20 tournament for his impressive leg-spin variations. After a splendid performance replacing an injured player, he secured an IPL contract with the Rajasthan Royals. He played his first match for RR against Delhi Daredevils in 2013, at the notable Pravin Tambe age of 41.

He's also played for Gujarat Lions, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Kolkata Knight Riders. But, his journey faced a hiccup when he was disqualified from the 2020 IPL after participating in a T10 league without the BCCI's approval.

T10 Cricket League and More

In the Abu Dhabi T10 League, Pravin played for the Sindhis team. In a match against Kerala Knights, he was the first to take a 5-wicket haul in T10 format history.

Domestic Achievements and Stint in T20 Franchise

In 2013's Champions League Twenty20, Pravin Tambe received the Golden Wicket award. His performance outshone cricketers like Ravichandran Ashwin and Sunil Narine. Later, he debuted for the Mumbai cricket team and played for the Trinbago Knight Riders in the 2020 Caribbean Premier League (CPL), becoming the first Indian cricketer to participate.

Pravin's journey, both in his personal and professional life, inspires many. And with the recent surge in his Google searches and Pravin Tambe's net worth, it's clear that India is keenly following his journey.

FAQs
At what age Pravin Tambe made his IPL Debut?
Pravin Tambe debuted at the age of 41 for the Rajasthan Royals.
What is Pravin Tambe’s net worth?
Pravin Tambe’s net worth currently stands at Rs. 6 crores.
How many overs has Pravin Tambe bowled in his IPL Career? 
Pravin Tambe has bowled 110 overs during his IPL career to date.