New Delhi
Zeeshan Ansari was just 16 when he played in the 2016 U-19 World Cup alongside future Indian stars like Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan, and Avesh Khan. However, while his teammates progressed, Ansari faded from the limelight. Over the years, he played only five Ranji Trophy matches and one Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy game for Uttar Pradesh.
On Sunday, at 25, Ansari made a strong impression in his IPL debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad, claiming the wickets of Faf du Plessis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and KL Rahul. Though his team lost, his fearless approach stood out. His former U-19 selector, Gyanendra Pandey, praised his courage and dedication, calling his IPL selection a well-earned reward.
Despite performing well in the UP T20 League, where he was the highest wicket-taker for Meerut Mavericks, Ansari struggled to get chances in domestic cricket. His childhood coach, Gopal Singh, recalled how, after a decent Ranji season, he was neither picked for senior cricket nor allowed to return to junior levels.
Coming from a middle-class family in Lucknow, Ansari never faced financial hardships, but his journey was full of challenges. His talent was recognized again in the UP T20 League, where KKR’s Rinku Singh utilized him effectively. With his IPL breakthrough, Ansari has another chance to prove his potential and revive his cricketing career.
