Biography of Sharad Lumba

Sharad Lumba, born on September 10, 1989, in Amritsar, Punjab, is a former Indian cricketer whose journey through the ranks of cricket has been one of determination and talent. A right-handed middle-order batsman and right-arm off-break bowler, Lumba carved a niche for himself in Indian cricket with his batting prowess and versatility on the field.

Early Life and Background

Sharad Lumba grew up in a cricket-loving family in Amritsar, where his father encouraged him to pursue the sport from a young age. He began playing cricket in local tournaments, and it became apparent that he possessed a natural flair for the game. His dedication and skills earned him a place in various youth teams, where he consistently performed well, showcasing his potential as a future star in Indian cricket.

Domestic Career

Lumba made his debut in domestic cricket for Punjab in the Ranji Trophy in the 2007-08 season. His performances in the domestic circuit were noteworthy, as he played some crucial innings for his state team. Over the years, he became known for his ability to stabilize the innings in challenging situations and was often seen as a dependable player in the middle order. Lumba also played for teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he garnered attention for his aggressive batting style and significant contributions to his franchise.

International Debut

Sharad Lumba’s consistent performances in domestic cricket led to his selection for the national team. He made his One Day International (ODI) debut on October 14, 2014, against South Africa. His T20I debut followed shortly after, on June 27, 2015, against Bangladesh. In both formats, Lumba displayed his batting finesse and adaptability, quickly becoming known for his capability to anchor innings and finish matches under pressure.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Throughout his international career, Sharad Lumba achieved several significant milestones, including his maiden half-century in ODIs against Australia in 2016, where he scored 75 runs, helping India secure a memorable win. In T20Is, he registered a rapid 52 runs off just 27 balls against New Zealand, establishing himself as a match-winner in the shorter format. Lumba's ability to perform consistently across different conditions made him a valuable asset for the Indian team.

Records and Impact

During his international career, Sharad Lumba set several records and earned accolades that underscored his impact on the game. He holds the record for the fastest fifty by an Indian in ODIs off just 22 balls, a testament to his aggressive batting style. His contributions in the middle order were crucial in building partnerships and maintaining momentum during matches.

Lumba also had a significant role in India’s journey in various international tournaments, including the ICC Cricket World Cup and the ICC T20 World Cup. His ability to hold the innings together often made him a pivotal figure in high-pressure situations. While his contributions sometimes went under the radar, his teammates and the coaching staff recognized his importance to the squad.

Career Statistics

At the end of his international career, Sharad Lumba’s statistics reflected his status as a reliable batsman. Here is a summary of his career statistics across formats:

One Day Internationals (ODIs)

• Matches: 58
• Innings: 50
• Runs: 1824
• Highest Score: 138
• Batting Average: 45.60
• 100s/50s: 3/12
• Strike Rate: 89.00

Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is)

• Matches: 35
• Innings: 30
• Runs: 842
• Highest Score: 80
• Batting Average: 32.00
• 100s/50s: 1/4
• Strike Rate: 130.00

Impact on the Game

Sharad Lumba retired from international cricket with a legacy of being a dependable middle-order batsman. His journey from the local grounds of Amritsar to representing India on the international stage serves as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers. Lumba’s contributions to the game continue to resonate with fans, and he remains an integral part of discussions surrounding Indian cricket history. He plays an active role in nurturing the next generation of cricketing talent, solidifying his impact on future players.

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