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Mohammed Azharuddeen, born on 22 March 1994 in Thalangara, Kerala, is an emerging talent in the world of Indian cricket. Azharuddeen, a right-handed wicket-keeper-batter, has made a name for himself, not to be confused with former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin. Representing Kerala in domestic cricket, he has showcased his prowess in various formats, making significant contributions to his team's successes.
Azharuddeen's journey into the world of cricket began in the picturesque locales of Thalangara in the Kasaragod district of Kerala. Born to BK Moidu and Nabeesa, he was the youngest among eight brothers. His passion for cricket was evident from a tender age, and it's no surprise given that he was named after the iconic Indian captain by his elder brother. Following in the footsteps of his siblings, who all played district-level cricket, Azharuddeen started wielding the bat and ball when he was just 9 years old. Tragedy struck early in his life as he lost his mother at the age of 16 and his father when he was 20. However, these personal setbacks did not deter him from pursuing his passion for cricket.
Azharuddeen began his journey in the world of domestic cricket with his first-class debut on November 15, 2015, as part of the 2015-2016 Ranji Trophy. His talent and skills were soon recognized in the List A format, where he made his debut on December 10, 2015, in the 2015-2016 Vijay Hazare Trophy. He continued to shine on the field, and before long, he made his debut in the Twenty20 arena on January 2, 2016, during the 2015-2016 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Azharuddeen's dedication to the sport and hard work have undoubtedly led him to achieve great heights in his career.
However, it wasn't just about participation; Azharuddeen made headlines with his performances. On 13 January 2021, during the 2020–21 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he etched his name in the record books by becoming the first T20 centurion for Kerala. His blistering 37-ball century against Mumbai was not only a testament to his explosive batting but also marked the second-fastest century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. This whirlwind innings of 137 off 54 deliveries also became the third-highest score in the tournament's history.
His journey wasn't without its challenges. In August 2018, he faced a brief setback when he, along with four other players, was suspended for three games in the 2018–19 Vijay Hazare Trophy due to dissent against Kerala's captain, Sachin Baby. However, true to his spirit, Azharuddeen bounced back with even more determination, proving his mettle on the field.
Drawing from his consistent performances in domestic cricket, Azharuddeen caught the attention of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises. In February 2021, he was roped in by the Royal Challengers Bangalore for the 2021 IPL season.
Mohammed Azharuddeen's journey in cricket is a testament to his resilience, talent, and unwavering passion for the game. From the bylanes of Thalangara to the grand stadiums of Indian cricket, he has showcased that with dedication and hard work, one can achieve their dreams.
Mohammed Azharuddeen's prowess in domestic cricket soon caught the attention of the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises. In February 2021, he was acquired by the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for the 2021 IPL season. His inclusion in the RCB squad was seen as a testament to his potential and the impact he could bring to the T20 format. However, in the subsequent 2022 IPL auction, he went unsold. The IPL journey, albeit brief, provided Azharuddeen with an invaluable experience of sharing the dressing room with international cricket stalwarts and getting a taste of the most celebrated T20 league in the world.
Career Highlights and Statistics
Throughout his career, Azharuddeen has showcased consistent performances across formats. Here's a glimpse into his career statistics:
First-Class Matches: Played 22 matches, scoring 959 runs with a high score of 112. He boasts an average of 25.91 and a strike rate of 63.76. He has hit 5 centuries and 15 half-centuries in this format.
List A Matches: In 36 matches, he has accumulated 692 runs with a high score of 73, averaging 23.86 and striking at 98.85. He has hit 18 fifties in this format.
T20 Matches: Azharuddeen has played 39 T20 matches, amassing 741 runs. His highest score in this format is an explosive 137*, with an average of 22.45 and a remarkable strike rate of 134.23.
Azharuddeen's 37-ball century against Mumbai in the 2020–21 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy not only made him the first T20 centurion for Kerala but also marked the second-fastest century in the tournament's history.
His innings of 137 off 54 deliveries in the same match stands as the third-highest score in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
Despite facing personal tragedies at a young age, losing both parents, Azharuddeen's resilience and dedication to the sport have been commendable.
Mohammed Azharuddeen's journey in the world of cricket is a testament to his sheer talent, determination, and passion for the game. From his early days in Thalangara to making headlines in domestic cricket and getting a taste of the IPL, he has showcased that with perseverance and hard work, one can rise against all odds. While his journey is still unfolding, the legacy he's building is one of resilience, dedication, and an undying love for cricket.
FAQs
When did Mohammed Azharuddeen make his first-class debut?
He made his first-class debut on 15 November 2015 during the 2015–16 Ranji Trophy.
Which IPL team did Azharuddeen play for?
He was acquired by the Royal Challengers Bangalore for the 2021 IPL season.
What is Azharuddeen's highest score in T20s?
His highest score in T20s is 137.
Where was Mohammed Azharuddeen born?
He was born in Thalangara, Kerala.
Did Azharuddeen ever score a century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy?
Yes, he scored a 37-ball century against Mumbai in the 2020–21 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
