Hanuma Vihari: A Detailed Biography

Hanuma Vihari, born on October 13, 1993, in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, has made a significant impact on Indian cricket as a talented batting allrounder. With a right-handed batting style and right-arm offbreak bowling, Vihari's cricketing journey has been marked by perseverance, skill, and resilience.

Early Life and Education

Growing up in Kakinada, Vihari showed an early interest in cricket. Inspired by his family and the cricketing culture in India, he began playing the sport at a young age. His talent was evident, and he pursued cricket diligently, honing his skills in local clubs and school competitions. Vihari's commitment to the sport led him to move to Hyderabad, where he joined the prestigious MRF Pace Foundation. This decision allowed him to focus on his game under the coaching of renowned cricketing figures.

Domestic Career

Vihari made his First-Class debut for Andhra in the Ranji Trophy during the 2010-11 season, where he showcased his potential by scoring 128 runs in his debut match. His performances in domestic cricket were consistently impressive, leading to significant achievements. Over the years, Vihari played for various teams, including the Delhi Capitals and the Andhra Pradesh team. His ability to play in different conditions established him as a reliable batsman in the middle order. In the 2018-19 Ranji Trophy season, Vihari was the leading run-scorer for Andhra, demonstrating his skill and determination. His 2017-18 season was particularly noteworthy, as he amassed 752 runs, including a double century against Jammu and Kashmir. Such performances solidified his place as a key player for his state team.

International Debut

Hanuma Vihari received his first international call-up in August 2018 when he was selected for the Test series against England. He made his Test debut on September 1, 2018, at The Oval, where he scored 56 runs, showcasing his composure and ability to handle pressure at the highest level. This performance marked the beginning of his journey on the international stage.

Key Milestones and Achievements

One of the most memorable moments of Vihari's career came during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2020-21. In the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Vihari played a remarkable innings, scoring 23 runs off 161 balls with a hamstring injury, helping India secure a draw against Australia. His gritty performance earned him widespread acclaim and highlighted his fighting spirit. Vihari's consistent performances in red-ball cricket have made him a reliable option for India's Test team, particularly in challenging conditions. In April 2019, he became the fastest Indian to reach 1,000 runs in Tests, achieving this milestone in just 15 matches.

Records and Career Statistics

As of now, Hanuma Vihari's career statistics across formats are impressive:

Test Statistics

- Matches: 16 - Innings: 33 - Runs: 839 - Batting Average: 33.87 - 100s/50s: 1/7 - Highest Score: 107

ODI Statistics

- Matches: 16 - Innings: 11 - Runs: 248 - Batting Average: 22.45 - 100s/50s: 0/1 - Highest Score: 72

T20I Statistics

- Matches: 9 - Innings: 8 - Runs: 73 - Batting Average: 10.42 - 100s/50s: 0/0 - Highest Score: 24 Vihari’s batting style has been described as a mix of elegance and grit, making him a player to watch in both domestic and international cricket. His ability to play in various conditions and against different bowling attacks has further cemented his position within the team.

Impact on the Game

Hanuma Vihari's journey reflects the story of a determined cricketer who overcame challenges to achieve his dreams. His performances, especially in Tests, have contributed significantly to the Indian cricket team's successes in recent years. Beyond his individual milestones, Vihari's resilience and unwavering spirit during crucial moments have inspired many aspiring cricketers. As he continues to develop his game and enhance his skills, Vihari remains a key figure in India's cricket landscape, embodying the essence of hard work and dedication required to succeed in the sport. His journey exemplifies the potential of cricketers from smaller towns making their mark on the international stage, making him a role model for young cricketers across the country.

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