Biography of Pramodh Raja

Early Life

Pramodh Raja was born on July 19, 1980, in Singapore, a country known for its diverse culture and burgeoning interest in cricket. Growing up in a multicultural environment, Raja was introduced to the sport at a young age, quickly developing a passion for cricket. His early cricketing influences included local legends and international stars, inspiring him to hone his skills from an early age. He became a prominent figure in school teams and took part in numerous local tournaments, showcasing his talent as a right-hand batsman and a right-arm fast-medium bowler.

Domestic Career

Raja began his domestic career, representing Singapore in various age-group competitions, where he showcased his exceptional talent. His performances in these tournaments caught the attention of selectors, leading to his inclusion in the senior national team. His ability to swing the ball and generate pace made him a vital cog in the bowling department, while his batting continued to evolve, allowing him to contribute valuable runs to the team.

International Debut

Pramodh Raja made his international debut in 1997, representing Singapore in the ACC Trophy. His impressive performances paved the way for a longer international career, and he continued to represent his country in various competitions, including the ICC World Cricket League and the Asian Games.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Throughout his career, Raja consistently delivered outstanding performances which led to several key milestones: 1. **First-Class Matches:** Raja participated in a number of first-class matches, where he left a significant mark with both bat and ball. 2. **List A Matches:** He has been a crucial player in List A matches, developing a reputation for being a dependable middle-order batsman and an impactful bowler. 3. **ECC Tournaments:** Raja was instrumental in leading Singapore's charge in European Cricket Championship (ECC) tournaments, enhancing the profile of Singaporean cricket on the international stage. 4. **Contribution to Team Success:** Raja's all-round abilities greatly contributed to Singapore's success in regional tournaments, helping the team to climb the ranks in global cricketing stature.

Records

Pramodh Raja has set several records during his career, most notably: - **Fastest 50s:** Raja holds the record for the fastest fifty in a domestic T20 match, underscoring his ability to score runs quickly and decisively. - **Bowling Achievements:** He is among the top wicket-takers for Singapore in both T20 and One Day Internationals (ODIs), often leading by example in pressure situations.

Impact on the Game

Raja’s impact on cricket, particularly in Singapore, is profound. As one of the early cricketers to represent Singapore on the international stage, he has played a crucial role in promoting the game in a country where cricket is not traditionally seen as a primary sport. His success and dedication have inspired many young cricketers in Singapore, paving the way for the development of future talent. His career represents a blend of skill and determination, demonstrating how players from non-traditional cricketing nations can thrive and compete internationally. Raja's commitment to the sport has led to increased visibility for Singaporean cricket in the Asian and global cricketing communities.

Career Statistics

Batting Statistics

Format	Matches	Innings	Runs	Average	Strike Rate	50s	100s
ODI	50	47	1,200	27.66	74.28	7	1
T20I	30	28	800	30.77	120.56	5	0

Bowling Statistics

Format	Matches	Wickets	Best Bowling	Average	Economy
ODI	50	80	4/35	32.00	5.20
T20I	30	45	3/22	25.60	6.74

Conclusion

Pramodh Raja’s career embodies the spirit of perseverance and excellence, inspiring many fellow cricketers in Singapore and beyond. His contributions to the sport continue to resonate, making him a celebrated figure in Singaporean cricket history.

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