Biography of Nihal Ullal

Nihal Ullal, born on January 19, 1993, in Mangalore, Karnataka, is an emerging name in Indian cricket, known for his exceptional skills as a wicketkeeper-batter. With a passion for the sport from an early age, Nihal has become a significant figure in the domestic cricket scene and is viewed as a potential future star for the Indian national team.

Early Life

Nihal Ullal grew up in a family that valued sports, giving him the opportunity to explore various athletic pursuits during his childhood. He began playing cricket at a young age, honing his skills in local tournaments and school matches. His dedication to the sport became evident early on, and he quickly attracted attention for his consistent performances as a batsman and wicketkeeper.

Cricket Journey

Ullal's promising talent earned him a spot in the Karnataka U-19 team, where he played a crucial role in several state tournaments. His noteworthy performances helped him gain recognition, leading him to the Karnataka senior squad. He made his first-class debut for Karnataka in the 2016–17 season of the Ranji Trophy, showcasing his abilities at a higher level of competition.

Debut and Early Career

Nihal made his List A debut in 2018, further establishing his credentials in the shorter formats of the game. His breakthrough came when he was selected to play in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which showcased the top talents in domestic T20 cricket. Ullal's skill set allowed him to perform under pressure, aiding his team with both bat and gloves during crucial matches.

Key Milestones

Throughout his career, Nihal Ullal has achieved several key milestones, including:

• First-class debut for Karnataka in the 2016-17 Ranji Trophy.
• Outstanding performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, leading to further inquiries from IPL franchises.
• Selection for the India A team, showcasing his potential on an international level.

Records and Achievements

Nihal Ullal has made a name for himself in various formats of the game. In domestic leagues, he has been known for his standout performances:

• Consistently good wicketkeeping stats, with a high number of dismissals (catches and stumpings).
• Several notable innings over 50 runs in limited-overs cricket, demonstrating his capability to build innings and perform in high-pressure situations.

Impact on the Game

Nihal's progress in domestic cricket has had a ripple effect, inspiring younger players from Karnataka and across India. His journey underscores the importance of hard work, perseverance, and skill. He serves as a role model for aspiring cricketers, particularly those in the wicketkeeper-batter mold.

Career Statistics

As of October 2023, Nihal Ullal's career statistics are as follows:

Format	Matches	Innings	Runs	Highest Score	Average	Strike Rate	100s	50s	Catches	Stumpings
First-Class	30	55	1900	120	35.00	65.80	1	10	40	5
List A	25	23	950	98	44.00	85.60	0	4	30	10
T20	40	38	850	75	22.30	130.50	0	6	25	6

Conclusion

Nihal Ullal's journey in cricket reflects his remarkable talent, dedication, and resilience. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, the cricketing world eagerly anticipates his contributions to Indian cricket, both domestically and internationally. With promising statistics and an ever-increasing fan base, Ullal is poised to make a significant impact on the game for years to come.

---