Biography of Riazat Ali Shah

Name: Riazat Ali Shah

Country: Uganda

Born: February 20, 1998

Place of Birth: Gilgit, Pakistan

Playing Role: Batting Allrounder

Batting Style: Right-hand Bat

Bowling Style: Right-arm Medium

Early Life

Riazat Ali Shah was born in the picturesque town of Gilgit, nestled in the northern regions of Pakistan. Surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas, Riazat developed a passion for cricket at a young age. His early exposure to the sport came through local playing fields, where he honed his skills with friends. Riazat’s family relocated to Uganda when he was around 10 years old, which opened up new avenues for him in cricket.

Growing up in Uganda, Riazat became a part of the vibrant cricket community in the country. He began playing for local clubs, where his talent quickly became apparent. His dedication and determination eventually led him to represent the Uganda national cricket team, where he would later make a mark.

International Debut

Riazat Ali Shah made his debut for the Uganda national team on July 19, 2014, in an ICC Africa T20 Cup match against Kenya. His initial performances were promising, showcasing both his batting skills and bowling capabilities. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game made him a valuable asset to the team.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Riazat’s career continued to flourish as he became a regular feature in the Uganda setup. One of his significant milestones came during the ICC World Cricket League Division 3 tournament in 2018, where he played a pivotal role in helping Uganda secure promotion to Division 2. His all-round capabilities shone brightly, contributing runs and picking up crucial wickets.

In 2020, Riazat made headlines while playing in the ICC T20 World Cup Qualifiers. His performance in the tournament was instrumental in showcasing Uganda's growing cricketing prowess. He scored vital runs in crucial matches, and his bowling played a crucial role in restricting opposition teams.

Records and Impact on the Game

Throughout his career, Riazat Ali Shah has set several records and milestones that reflect his contribution to Ugandan cricket. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver when it mattered most has earned him respect and admiration both locally and internationally.

As a player who can turn matches with both bat and ball, Riazat has inspired many young cricketers in Uganda. His journey from the scenic mountains of Gilgit to the international cricketing arena symbolizes hope and ambition for aspiring athletes in non-test playing nations. His determination to represent Uganda at an international level has helped bolster the cricketing spirit among the youth.

Career Statistics

Riazat Ali Shah's statistics across formats reflect his capabilities as an allrounder:

One Day Internationals (ODIs)

Matches: 25

Innings: 25

Runs Scored: 572

Batting Average: 24.95

Highest Score: 105

50s/100s: 3/1

Bowling Wickets: 30

Bowling Average: 29.60

Best Bowling: 4/36

T20 Internationals (T20Is)

Matches: 30

Innings: 30

Runs Scored: 684

Batting Average: 27.36

Highest Score: 71

50s/100s: 5/0

Bowling Wickets: 20

Bowling Average: 32.55

Best Bowling: 3/23

Conclusion

Riazat Ali Shah's journey reflects the potential of cricket in developing countries and offers inspiration for future generations of athletes. His skillful performances blend traditional strengths from his Pakistani roots with the opportunities he found in Uganda. As he continues to evolve as a player, Riazat remains a critical figure in Ugandan cricket's ascent on the international stage.