Zaheer Khan, a name that would give Graeme Smith jitters every time he would play against India, has been one of the finest pacers India has produced. As Zaheer Khan turns 38 today, we revisit the left-arm seamer’s career. Born in Maharashtra, Zaheer started his domestic career by playing for Baroda.
Born in Maharashtra, Zaheer started his domestic career by playing for Baroda. Zaheer represented India from 2000-2014. He was introduced in the international arena as a fast bowler who could bowl unplayable fast yorkers at will.
WATCH: Zaheer Khan’s unplayable yorkers
(Video Courtesy: YouTube.com/amazingcricketgame)
He made his Test debut against Bangladesh in 2000. Zaheer went on to play 92 Tests where he took 311 wickets and scored 1231 runs. Zak played 200 ODIs where he took 282 wickets and scored 792 runs in his career. As far as T20Is are concerned, he took 17 wickets in 17 appearances.
Over the years, Zaheer mastered the art of swinging the ball both ways and was super-effective with his reverse swing. Apart from contributing with the ball, Zak was a useful lower-order batsman. In fact, Zaheer held the world record for the highest Test score by a number 11 batsman as he scored 75 against Bangladesh in 2004. The record was broken eight years later by West Indian Tino Best who scored 95 runs. Currently, Ashton Agar of Australia holds the record as he scored 98 runs on his debut match against England in 2013.
Zaheer’s highest score in ODIs is 34 not out. He is most remembered for his innings where he smashed Zimbabwean Henry Olonga for four sixes in an over.
WATCH: Zaheer Khan smashes Henry Olonga for four sixes in four balls
(Video Courtesy: YouTube.com/10anujrathi10)
Zaheer played a vital role in the 2011 World Cup and helped India lift the trophy. He was the spearhead of India’s bowling attack and he ended up being the joint leading wicket-taker in the tournament along with Shahid Afridi.
Zaheer retired from International cricket in 2015 but continues to play domestic T20 league. He was a part of Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers of Bangalore in the Indian Premier League. Zaheer is now a part of the Delhi Daredevils and he led the team in the ninth edition of the league.
In association with sports trainer Adrian Le Roux and physiotherapist Andrew Leipus, Zaheer has also set up a rehab and training centre called ProSport Fitness & Services.
A foodie by heart, Zaheer owns a restaurant called Zaheer Khan’s Dine Fine in Pune.
