Biography of Ravi Rajan

Early Life

Ravi Rajan was born on November 5, 1954, in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India. Growing up in a sports-loving family, Ravi was introduced to cricket at an early age by his father, who often took him to local matches. His passion for the game blossomed on the dusty fields of Jabalpur, where he showcased a natural talent for both batting and bowling. Ravi's early schooling included participation in various inter-school tournaments that honed his skills, making him a standout player among his peers.

Domestic Career

Ravi Rajan made his mark in the domestic circuit playing for Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy. His consistent performances as a left-arm medium pacer and a right-handed batsman attracted attention from selectors. His first-class debut came in 1974, marking the beginning of a notable journey in Indian domestic cricket. Over the years, he exhibited remarkable prowess with both bat and ball, contributing significantly to his team's successes.

International Debut

Ravi Rajan earned his place in the national squad following impressive domestic performances. He made his Test debut for India on December 13, 1980, against Australia in Bangalore. His ability to swing the ball and create crucial breakthroughs made him a valuable asset to the team. After a few matches, he transitioned into One Day Internationals (ODIs) and made his debut on July 30, 1983, against England, during the early stages of what became a historic World Cup for India.

Key Milestones

One of the standout moments of Ravi's career was during the 1983 Cricket World Cup, where he contributed to India’s first-ever World Cup victory. His effective bowling spell in the group stages was vital in restricting opposing teams. Additionally, his ability to form partnerships with frontline batsmen led to important victories for the Indian squad during his tenure. Throughout his career, Ravi reached several personal milestones, including: - Scoring over 3,000 runs in first-class cricket. - Taking more than 200 wickets in first-class matches, solidifying his reputation with the ball. - Notable performances against strong opposition which highlighted his capability in pressure situations.

Records and Achievements

Ravi Rajan's achievements extend beyond mere statistics. He held the record for being among the top wicket-takers for India during a critical phase in the team's history. His remarkable fielding skills also made him a competent fielder, often seen completing difficult catches and making run-out opportunities. Some of his notable records include: - Best bowling figures of 6 wickets for 54 runs in a Test match. - A top score of 175 in Test cricket makes him one of the few all-rounders to have such a notable contribution with the bat and ball.

Impact on the Game

Ravi Rajan is remembered not only for his contributions on the field but also for the inspiration he provided to upcoming cricketers in India. His determination and humility made him a relatable figure for many young players aspiring to make their mark in cricket. His focus on both batting and bowling showcased the importance of all-round skills, urging future generations to embrace versatility in their game. Post-retirement, Ravi continued to invest in the sport, engaging in cricket coaching and mentoring programs, and sharing his vast knowledge and experience with aspiring cricketers. His legacy lives on as an example of dedication to the sport, emphasizing the need for hard work and perseverance.

Career Statistics

Format	Matches	Runs	Highest Score	Batting Average	Wickets	Best Bowling
Test	20	1,012	175	30.03	67	6/54
ODI	30	865	109	27.74	30	4/43
First-class	164	3,112	175	34.12	220	6/54

Ravi Rajan's journey is not just a tale of runs and wickets; it is an inspiring narrative of a cricketer who balanced talent, hard work, and humility to leave an indelible mark on Indian cricket.

---

Please Note: This content was generated with the assistance of AI (ChatGPT by OpenAI), and it is not reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and clarity.