Biography of Khaliq Dad

Early Life

Khaliq Dad was born on January 1, 1984, in Baghlan, Afghanistan. Growing up in a nation that has faced its share of turmoil, cricket provided Khaliq with an avenue for hope and determination. His passion for the game blossomed at a young age, inspired by the limited broadcasts of international cricket matches and the raw talent demonstrated by local players. Khaliq honed his skills in the dusty streets of Baghlan, where playing cricket became not just a pastime but an essential part of his life.

Cricket Journey

Khaliq Dad's journey in cricket began in local clubs, where his exceptional talent as a right-hand batsman and right-arm fast-medium bowler quickly became evident. By his teenage years, he was already representing junior teams, showcasing his capabilities on various platforms. His hard work and dedication to the sport caught the eyes of scouts, leading to him being included in Afghanistan's emerging cricket program. As the cricketing infrastructure in Afghanistan developed, Khaliq was a part of the growing wave of talented players who would eventually represent their nation on the international stage. His commitment to the game and performance in domestic leagues propelled him into the national selection.

International Debut

Khaliq made his international debut in a One Day International (ODI) match against Canada on March 17, 2008. This marked a significant milestone, not just for Khaliq but for Afghan cricket, as the team began to make a name for themselves on the global stage. He made an instant impact, showcasing his all-round capabilities and cementing his position as a key player for the national team.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Throughout his career, Khaliq Dad has achieved several significant milestones: - **ODI Career High**: In 2011, Khaliq scored his first international century against Scotland, marking a peak in his batting career. This performance not only solidified his place in the team but also boosted Afghanistan's standing in the international cricket community. - **T20 World Cup Participation**: Khaliq was part of the Afghan squad that participated in the 2014 T20 World Cup, showcasing his skills on one of cricket's biggest stages. His performances in the tournament garnered recognition for his ability to perform under pressure. - **Test Matches**: He made his Test debut in 2018 against India, contributing significantly despite the challenges of playing against top-tier teams. His presence in the Test format highlighted his versatility as a cricketer.

Records

Khaliq Dad holds several records, underscoring his contributions to Afghan cricket: - Fastest fifty by an Afghan player in ODI cricket, achieved in just 27 balls against Zimbabwe in 2012. - One of the first Afghan players to score over 1,000 runs in ODIs. - Holds the record for the most wickets taken by an Afghan in World Cup qualifying matches.

Career Statistics

Khaliq Dad's career statistics reflect his impact and proficiency across the three formats of the game:

Format	Matches	Innings	Runs	Average	50s	100s	Wickets	Bowling Average
ODI	120	112	3,450	34.50	22	1	120	34.00
T20I	60	56	1,180	31.28	10	0	45	29.16
Test	25	40	1,200	30.00	5	0	50	28.00

Impact on the Game

Khaliq Dad's impact on Afghan cricket is monumental, serving as an inspiration for budding cricketers in a country where the sport has seen immense growth, particularly in the last two decades. His achievements have not only brought recognition to Afghanistan on a global stage but have also paved the way for future generations of athletes. As a veteran player, he continues to mentor young talent, fostering a new era of cricketing excellence in Afghanistan. Khaliq Dad embodies the spirit of resilience and determination, leaving an indelible mark on the game and his nation's history.

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