.svg){kind=small}
Chirag Suri, born on 18th February 1995 in New Delhi, India, is a prominent figure in the cricketing world, especially for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) national cricket team. An Indian-born cricketer, Chirag's journey from the bustling streets of Delhi to the international cricketing arenas representing UAE is nothing short of remarkable. With a right-handed batting style and skills in right-arm offbreak and legbreak googly bowling, he has carved a niche for himself as an opening batsman.
Chirag's tryst with cricket began in his birthplace, New Delhi. However, his life took a significant turn when he moved to the UAE with his family in 2004. This relocation played a pivotal role in shaping his cricketing career. While in the UAE, he pursued his education at the Repton School Dubai. Later, as of 2013, he was engrossed in studying business management at Heriot-Watt University Dubai.
His passion for cricket was evident early on. Chirag represented the United Arab Emirates national under-19 cricket team, showcasing his talent at the 2014 Under-19 Cricket World Cup. This was just the beginning of his illustrious journey in the world of cricket. His dedication and prowess on the field led him to make his first-class debut for the UAE senior team in the 2015–17 ICC Intercontinental Cup on 16 September 2017.
Chirag's talent didn't go unnoticed. In January 2021, he was honored with the position of vice-captain of the United Arab Emirates cricket team, a testament to his leadership qualities and cricketing acumen.
His journey from a young boy in Delhi to vice-captain of the UAE national team is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and passion for the sport. While his early life laid the foundation, it was his relentless pursuit of excellence in cricket that made him stand out and represent the UAE on the international stage.
Chirag Suri's ascent in the domestic cricketing circuit was marked by determination, talent, and a series of notable performances. His prowess was first recognized when he was bought by the Gujarat Lions in the 2017 IPL auction, just two days after his 22nd birthday. This acquisition was a significant milestone, especially considering he hadn't yet made his international debut for the UAE. Although Suri didn't get the opportunity to play for the Lions, his inclusion in the squad was a testament to his potential and the impression he had made in the domestic arena.
His domestic journey wasn't limited to the IPL. Chirag showcased his skills in various tournaments, establishing himself as a reliable opening batter. He played for teams like the Dubai Capitals, Toronto Nationals, and the United Arab Emirates Under-19s. His style of play was characterized by steady accumulation, often taking on the role of the anchor, allowing other players to bat around him. This approach made him a crucial asset to his teams, ensuring stability at the top of the order.
Chirag Suri's international journey began in earnest in 2017. He made his debut in the now-defunctional Intercontinental Cup first-class tournament for Associates. However, it was in the shorter formats of the game where he truly shone. He quickly climbed the ranks to become one of the top five run-scorers in both ODIs and T20Is for the UAE.
His One Day International (ODI) debut came against the West Indies at Harare on March 6, 2018. From there, he went on to represent the UAE in various international tournaments, consistently delivering performances that solidified his position in the team. In T20 Internationals, Suri made his debut against Australia at the Tolerance Oval on October 22, 2018. His T20I journey saw him producing three scores of 80-plus in a nine-match run across tournaments in Oman, playing against teams like Nepal, Germany, and Kuwait.
The year 2021 marked a significant point in his career when he was elevated to the position of vice-captain of the UAE cricket team under the leadership of Ahmed Raza. This was a clear indication of the trust and respect he had garnered within the team. However, the dynamics of cricket are ever-evolving, and both Suri and Raza faced challenges in 2022, which saw them navigating changes in the team's leadership.
Throughout his international journey, Chirag Suri has demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to the sport. His performances on the field, combined with his leadership qualities off it, have made him an invaluable asset to the UAE cricket team.
Chirag Suri's cricketing journey is adorned with numerous achievements and highlights that have solidified his reputation as a formidable cricketer. One of the most significant milestones in his career was his acquisition by the Gujarat Lions in the 2017 IPL auction. This was a clear indication of his rising stature in the cricketing world, especially considering he was yet to make his international debut for the UAE at that time.
In the international arena, Suri quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. He became one of the top five run-scorers for the UAE in both ODIs and T20Is. His prowess with the bat was evident when he produced three T20I scores of 80-plus within a nine-match run, playing against formidable opponents like Nepal, Germany, and Kuwait. These performances not only showcased his batting skills but also highlighted his ability to rise to the occasion and deliver under pressure.
Another feather in his cap was his elevation to the vice-captaincy of the UAE cricket team in early 2021. Being entrusted with such a responsibility at a relatively young age speaks volumes about his leadership qualities and the trust he commands within the team.
Like every sportsperson, Chirag Suri's journey was not devoid of challenges. One of the initial challenges he faced was making a mark in the domestic circuit to get noticed by international selectors. His Indian roots and subsequent move to the UAE meant he had to adapt to different cricketing cultures and prove himself in a new environment.
His acquisition by the Gujarat Lions in the IPL, while a significant achievement, also posed a challenge as he didn't get a chance to play for the team. Such situations can be disheartening for any player, but Suri took it in stride, focusing on honing his skills and waiting for the right opportunities.
In the international circuit, while he had numerous notable performances, he also faced periods of inconsistency. The dynamics of team selections and leadership changes, especially in 2022 when both he and Ahmed Raza faced changes in the team's leadership, posed challenges. Such situations can be mentally taxing, but Suri showcased resilience and adaptability, traits that are essential for any sportsperson to have a long and successful career.
Another challenge was the ever-present competition for a spot in the team. With emerging talents and a pool of skilled players, maintaining a consistent spot in the team required not just talent but also hard work, dedication, and continuous improvement.
However, Chirag Suri's approach to these challenges has been commendable. Instead of being bogged down, he used them as stepping stones, learning from each experience and coming back stronger. His dedication to the sport, combined with his mental fortitude, has ensured that he overcomes challenges and continues to shine on the cricketing field.
Chirag Suri's journey from the streets of New Delhi to the international cricketing arenas of the UAE is a testament to his unwavering passion, dedication, and commitment to the sport. His achievements, both in the domestic and international circuits, are a reflection of his talent and hard work. While his cricketing skills have won him accolades, it's his resilience in the face of challenges that truly sets him apart.
Every sportsperson faces highs and lows, but it's how one navigates these ups and downs that define their legacy. Suri's ability to take setbacks in stride, learn from them, and come back stronger has been a hallmark of his career. His elevation to the vice-captaincy of the UAE team and his consistent performances on the field are indicative of the trust and respect he has garnered over the years.
As Chirag Suri continues to play and contribute to the world of cricket, he serves as an inspiration to many budding cricketers. His journey underscores the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and a never-give-up attitude. While the future holds many more matches and potential milestones for Suri, his legacy as a dedicated cricketer who gave his all to the sport is already firmly established.
FAQs
When did Chirag Suri make his international debut for the UAE?
Chirag Suri made his ODI debut for the UAE on March 6, 2018, against the West Indies.
Which IPL team acquired Chirag Suri in 2017?
Chirag Suri was acquired by the Gujarat Lions in the 2017 IPL auction.
What is Chirag Suri's batting style?
Chirag Suri is a right-handed batsman.
When was Chirag Suri appointed as the vice-captain of the UAE cricket team?
Chirag Suri was named the vice-captain of the UAE cricket team in early 2021.
Where was Chirag Suri born?
Chirag Suri was born in New Delhi, India, on February 18, 1995.
