Biography of Praveen Kumar

Praveen Kumar is a former Indian cricketer known for his accuracy, seam movement, and the ability to swing the ball both ways. Born on October 2, 1986, in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, Praveen's journey in cricket began at a young age. His upbringing in a cricket-loving environment played a vital role in his early nurturing and passion for the game.

Early Life and Domestic Career

Praveen showed early promise as a talented cricketer and pursued his passion vigorously. He turned his attention to domestic cricket, making his debut for Uttar Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy during the 2006-2007 season. His excellence in the domestic circuit, including remarkable performances in the Deodhar Trophy, caught the eyes of national selectors. Praveen's domestic statistics speak volumes about his skill as a bowler. He consistently displayed his ability to take wickets while maintaining an impressive economy rate, making him an invaluable asset for his state team.

International Debut

Praveen Kumar made his international debut in a One Day International (ODI) against Bangladesh on 30th April 2008. His first appearance was memorable as he picked up 3 wickets for 63 runs in his 10 overs. He further solidified his place in the team with a consistent performance during the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup in 2007, having been a part of the Indian squad. Kumar's Test debut came later, on 9th December 2010, against the West Indies. He continued to impress with his bowling skills, earning respect for his ability to control the game during crucial moments.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Throughout his career, Praveen Kumar achieved numerous milestones that showcased his talent and contributions to Indian cricket. Some highlights include: - **ODI Record**: Kumar became known for his remarkable ability to swing the ball, achieving best bowling figures of 4/33 in an ODI match against New Zealand. - **T20 International**: He had an incredible T20I performance against Australia, claiming 3 wickets for just 16 runs. - **Test Matches**: Praveen's best bowling figures in Test cricket are 6/72, helping him secure a position as a crucial player in India's bowling lineup. His knack for promoting healthy competition also earned him immense respect among teammates and opponents alike.

Impact on the Game

Praveen Kumar's impact on the game goes beyond just statistics. He is often regarded as one of the bowlers who can take the game away from the opposition with his immense capabilities. His perfection in control, accuracy, and fitness set a standard for younger players. He contributed significantly to the Indian bowling unit during the late 2000s and early 2010s, helping India become a formidable force in both ODI and T20 formats. His tactical understanding of the game provided valuable insights during matches, influencing how bowlers approached various situations. His experience became a guiding force for rising cricketers, emphasizing the importance of skill over raw pace.

Career Statistics

Below are the career statistics of Praveen Kumar across various formats:

1. One Day Internationals (ODIs)

- **Matches**: 68 - **Wickets**: 77 - **Bowling Average**: 33.82 - **Best Bowling Figures**: 4/33 - **Economy Rate**: 4.73

2. T20 Internationals

- **Matches**: 10 - **Wickets**: 9 - **Bowling Average**: 25.22 - **Best Bowling Figures**: 3/16 - **Economy Rate**: 7.2

3. Test Matches

- **Matches**: 6 - **Wickets**: 27 - **Bowling Average**: 22.74 - **Best Bowling Figures**: 6/72 - **Economy Rate**: 2.73

Conclusion

Praveen Kumar's career reflects dedication, skill, and a deep commitment to the game of cricket. While his playing days are behind him, the legacy he created during his time on the field continues to inspire many. His contributions were vital in shaping the Indian bowling lineup during his era, and he remains an important figure in the history of Indian cricket.

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