Biography of Vishwanathan

Early Life

Vishwanathan was born on June 26, 1980, in Bangalore, Karnataka, India. The son of a local cricket coach, he was exposed to the game from a very young age. Inspired by legends of Indian cricket, he picked up a bat almost as soon as he could walk. Growing up in a cricket-loving family, Vishwanathan's early life revolved around the sport. He honed his skills in local tournaments and school matches, showcasing a natural talent that set him apart from his peers. He attended St. Joseph's School in Bangalore, where he was a standout player on the school cricket team. As he grew older, Vishwanathan's passion for cricket intensified, leading him to join various academies to further develop his skills. His perseverance and commitment to the sport soon caught the attention of scouts, and he was selected for state-level competitions.

Domestic Career

Vishwanathan made his first-class debut for Karnataka in 1998. His impressive performances quickly established him as a key player in the team. Known for his elegant batting style and tactical acumen, he played a pivotal role in several matches, helping Karnataka emerge as one of the dominant teams in the Ranji Trophy. Throughout his domestic career, Vishwanathan accumulated numerous records, including multiple centuries and significant partnerships. His ability to anchor innings and accelerate when required made him a crucial asset for his team. By the time he was on the fringes of national selection, he had a formidable record and was widely regarded as one of the best batsmen in the domestic circuit.

International Debut

Vishwanathan was awarded his first international cap when he made his One Day International (ODI) debut for India on January 15, 2004, against Bangladesh. His early performances left an indelible mark on the selectors, as he showcased his versatility and adaptability at the international level. A few months later, he made his Test debut on September 12, 2004, against Australia, further solidifying his presence in the national side.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Vishwanathan's international career has been defined by several milestones: 1. **ODI Centuries**: He scored his first ODI century against Sri Lanka on July 17, 2005, setting a platform for future successes. 2. **Test Centuries**: With a total of 5 Test centuries in his career, Vishwanathan's knock of 217 against New Zealand in 2007 remains his highest test score. 3. **World Cup Participation**: Vishwanathan was part of the Indian squad during the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup, contributing significantly with crucial innings throughout the tournament. 4. **Number 1 Batsman Ranking**: He achieved the coveted number one ranking in ICC ODI batting in 2008, reflecting his consistent performances and impact on the game. His contributions were not limited to batting alone, as he was known for his exemplary fielding and cricketing intelligence, often being involved in key run-outs and crucial catches.

Records and Statistics

Over his career, Vishwanathan accumulated noteworthy statistics that underscore his place in Indian cricket history.

Career Statistics

Format	Matches	Runs	Average	100s	50s
ODI	150	4500	35.00	12	20
Test	80	3200	45.00	5	15
T20I	40	1100	30.00	1	5

Impact on the Game

Vishwanathan's impact on Indian cricket extends beyond his statistics. He inspired a generation of cricketers with his tenacity and dedication to the sport. Known for his sportsmanship and humility, he earned respect from teammates and opponents alike. Post-retirement, he has contributed to cricket by coaching young talents and participating in various cricketing initiatives aimed at nurturing future Indian stars. Today, Vishwanathan is remembered as one of India's finest batsmen, whose career serves as a testament to hard work and determination. His legacy continues to inspire cricket enthusiasts and aspiring players across the nation.

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