Bhuwaneswar Kumar, a prominent name in Indian cricket, is famed for his exceptional ability to swing the new and old ball. Celebrating his 35th birthday today, this star bowler from Team India has made an indelible mark in the world of cricket. Despite being sidelined from the national team since 2022, his past achievements stand testimony to his talent and hard work. Here’s a closer look at Bhuwaneswar Kumar’s inspiring journey and record-setting career that every bowler aspires to emulate.
Struggles and Triumphs: The Early Days
Born on February 5, 1990, in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, Bhuwaneswar Kumar developed a passion for cricket at a young age. The pivotal support in his cricketing journey came from his elder sister, Rekha, who introduced him to formal coaching at just 13 years old. His rise was not without challenges; there was a time when he lacked proper sports shoes to participate in under-17 tournaments. Rekha’s unwavering support included purchasing shoes from her savings, which helped Bhuwaneswar take his first steps into the cricketing world. He first gained attention in cricket at the age of 19.
Making History: Bowled Sachin for a Duck
Playing domestic cricket for Uttar Pradesh, Bhuwaneswar made his first-class debut at the tender age of 17 against Bengal. He gained headlines during the 2008-09 Ranji Trophy finals when he created history by dismissing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar for a duck while playing against Mumbai. This remarkable achievement made him the first bowler to achieve such a feat in first-class cricket, paving his way to the national team just four years later.
A Unique Record in International Cricket
Bhuwaneswar made his international debut on December 25, 2012, in a T20 match against Pakistan. Shortly thereafter, on December 30, 2012, he played his first ODI, also against Pakistan, and then on February 22, 2013, he debuted in Test cricket against Australia. Notably, he became the only bowler in the world to claim his first wicket in all three formats by bowling the batsman, setting a world record. This remarkable versatility emphasizes his unique place in cricket history.
Statistics and Achievements: A Stellar Career
In his international career, Bhuwaneswar Kumar has participated in 21 Test matches, 121 ODIs, and 87 T20Is for Team India. His remarkable performance includes:
- 63 wickets in Test cricket
- 141 wickets in One Day Internationals
- 90 wickets in T20 Internationals
Furthermore, he has achieved the rare feat of claiming five-wicket hauls in all three formats, a milestone that only a select few players have accomplished. Bhuwaneswar Kumar’s skill set, combined with his determination and hard work, continues to inspire budding cricketers across the globe.
The Legacy of Bhuwaneswar Kumar
As Bhuwaneswar Kumar turns 35, his legacy as one of India’s finest bowlers remains intact. His journey, from struggling to afford cricket shoes to becoming a record-setting bowler, serves as a reminder of what dedication and grit can achieve. Cricket enthusiasts eagerly await his return to the field, where he can add even more illustrious records to his name.