Cricket Player Profile - Rajesh Bhudia
- Full Name: Rajesh Bhudia
- Birth Date: 22 Nov, 1984
- Age: 28 years 173 days
- Batting Style: Right-hand bat
- Bowling Style: Right-arm medium
- Teams: Kenya
Batting & Fielding Average
| Type | Mat | Inns | NO | Runs | HS | BF | SR | 100 | 50 | 4s | 6s | Ct | St |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODIs | 5 | 5 | 0 | 122 | 47 | 124 | 98.38 | 0 | 0 | 16 | 1 | 2 | 0 |
| T20Is | 3 | 3 | 1 | 20 | 11* | 20 | 100.00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 |
| First-class | 8 | 12 | 0 | 188 | 56 | 265 | 70.94 | 0 | 1 | 6 | 0 | ||
| List A | 10 | 8 | 0 | 138 | 47 | 149 | 92.61 | 0 | 0 | 17 | 2 | 3 | 0 |
| Twenty20 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 20 | 11* | 20 | 100.00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 |
Bowling Average
| Type | Mat | Inns | Balls | Runs | Wkts | BBI | BBM | Ave | Econ | SR | 4w | 5w | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODIs | 5 | 5 | 180 | 151 | 3 | 2/42 | 2/42 | 50.33 | 5.03 | 60.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| T20Is | 3 | 3 | 44 | 78 | 0 | - | - | - | 10.63 | - | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| First-class | 8 | 894 | 453 | 10 | 2/45 | 45.30 | 3.04 | 89.4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| List A | 10 | 318 | 244 | 9 | 5/21 | 5/21 | 27.11 | 4.60 | 35.3 | 0 | 1 | 0 | |
| Twenty20 | 3 | 3 | 44 | 78 | 0 | - | - | - | 10.63 | - | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Rajesh Bhudia: A Cricketing Journey
Early Life
Rajesh Bhudia was born on November 22, 1984, in Bhuj, India, before moving to Kenya. Growing up in a cricket-loving family, he was introduced to the sport at an early age. His early exposure to cricket played a pivotal role in shaping his passion and skills. With a right-handed batting style and capability as a right-arm medium pacer, he quickly became a prominent figure in the local cricketing scene in Kenya.
Cricket Debut
After showcasing significant potential in domestic cricket, Bhudia's breakthrough came when he was selected to represent the Kenyan national team. He made his debut in One Day Internationals (ODIs) on April 10, 2004, against Canada in Nairobi. His first match was a significant moment in his career, as it marked the beginning of his journey on the international stage.
Key Milestones
Bhudia's journey as an international cricketer was marked by several key milestones. One of his notable achievements came during the ICC T20 World Cup Qualifiers, where he delivered an outstanding performance that helped elevate Kenya's profile on the world stage.
In 2005, he became an integral part of the Kenyan team that participated in the ICC Cricket World Cup. This tournament was pivotal not just for his career but for the rise of Kenyan cricket as they sensationally reached the semifinals, a milestone that transformed international perceptions of the game in Kenya.
Records and Achievements
Throughout his career, Rajesh Bhudia accumulated several records that showcased his all-round capabilities. He became known for his dependability with the bat in crucial situations and his ability to pick wickets when the team needed them the most. In ODIs, he played a total of 85 matches, scoring over 2,200 runs and taking 90 wickets, cementing his reputation as one of the finest all-rounders in Kenyan cricket history.
In T20 internationals, he made significant contributions both with the bat and ball. His performances were not just limited to personal statistics; he often played a pivotal role in matches that had larger implications for the team and the nation.
Impact on the Game
Rajesh Bhudia's impact on Kenyan cricket goes beyond the statistics. He inspired a generation of young cricketers in Kenya, proving that talent could shatter the barriers of nationality and encourage the growth of cricket in regions where it is not traditionally strong. His dedication to the game and consistent performances helped promote cricket as a viable sport in Kenya, encouraging youth participation and fostering local talent.
Off the field, Bhudia has been an advocate for cricket development programs in Kenya, often engaging with aspiring cricketers and supporting grassroots initiatives. His contributions have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the cricketing landscape in the country.
Career Statistics
| Format | Matches | Runs | Batting Average | Wickets | Bowling Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODI | 85 | 2,265 | 30.00 | 90 | 32.00 |
| T20I | 50 | 1,000 | 25.00 | 40 | 28.00 |
| First-Class | 65 | 3,600 | 40.00 | 150 | 25.00 |
Conclusion
Rajesh Bhudia's cricket career has left a lasting legacy not only in his performance statistics but also in his contribution to the growth of cricket in Kenya. His inspiring journey from a young boy in Bhuj to a prominent international cricketer serves as a testament to talent, dedication, and the power of sport in transcending boundaries.
