Biography of R Praveen Kumar

Early Life

R Praveen Kumar was born on February 8, 1985, in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India. His passion for cricket was ignited at a young age, influenced by the rich cricket culture of India. Praveen exhibited an early aptitude for the sport, which was nurtured through rigorous practice and dedication. He honed his skills playing in local tournaments and schools, quickly recognizing his potential as both a batsman and a bowler.

Domestic Career

Praveen Kumar made his domestic debut for Uttar Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy during the 2004-05 season. His remarkable performances in domestic cricket soon caught the eyes of national selectors. He was known for his right-handed batting and right-arm off-break bowling, making him a valuable asset for his state team. During his tenure in domestic cricket, he became known for his accuracy and ability to bowl at crucial junctures of the game.

International Debut

R Praveen Kumar made his international debut in One Day Internationals (ODIs) for India on May 30, 2008, against Bangladesh. His entry into the international scene was marked by impressive performances, showcasing his capacity to perform under pressure. He made his Test debut shortly thereafter, on December 26, 2009, against Sri Lanka and later transitioned into T20 format, debuting on June 12, 2009, against Bangladesh.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Throughout his career, Praveen Kumar has achieved several significant milestones. His impressive bowling skills were evident during the ICC World Cup 2011, where he played a pivotal role in India’s victorious campaign, taking crucial wickets and maintaining an economy rate that was vital in the format. He is particularly remembered for his ability to swing the ball both ways and for his exemplary control over line and length. Kumar was also known for his adaptability; he regularly contributed runs down the order, ensuring that his team had depth in batting. He was part of the Indian team that reached the finals of the ICC T20 World Cup in 2009 and the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2011.

Records and Impact on the Game

Praveen Kumar's contributions to the game extended beyond statistics. He was instrumental in shaping a bowling attack that was formidable during his time, especially in limited-overs formats. He recorded remarkable bowling figures, often delivering match-winning spells that helped India secure critical victories. His notable achievement in ODIs includes a best bowling figure of 4 wickets for 40 runs against Australia in October 2010. His ability to maintain pressure and pick crucial wickets earned him a respected spot in the Indian bowling lineup. While his career was impacted by injuries, his work ethic and resilience made him a respected figure among contemporaries and budding cricketers alike.

Career Statistics

Praveen Kumar's career statistics are testament to his abilities as an all-rounder:

One Day Internationals (ODIs)

• Matches: 68
• Runs Scored: 1,315
• Batting Average: 33.82
• 50s: 6
• Wickets: 77
• Bowling Average: 33.56
• Best Bowling: 4/40

Test Matches

• Matches: 6
• Runs Scored: 103
• Batting Average: 17.16
• Wickets: 27
• Bowling Average: 29.70
• Best Bowling: 4/69

T20 Internationals

• Matches: 10
• Runs Scored: 31
• Batting Average: 6.20
• Wickets: 12
• Bowling Average: 22.83
• Best Bowling: 3/20

Conclusion

R Praveen Kumar remains a significant figure in Indian cricket, known for his versatility as a bowler and a lower-order batsman. His journey from the domestic circuit to the international arena highlights his dedication and talent. Though injuries curtailed his prolonged presence in the game, his contributions were integral to many of India’s successes during his playing years. His legacy continues to inspire young cricketers aspiring to represent India on the international stage.

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