Zeeshan Ansari Shines in IPL Debut, Dismisses Faf du Plessis

Zeeshan Ansari made his Indian Premier League (IPL) debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their match against Delhi Capitals at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Sunday.

The Lucknow-born leg-spinner was brought into the playing XI in place of Simarjeet Singh after SRH captain Pat Cummins won the toss and opted to bat first.

Zeeshan was acquired by Sunrisers Hyderabad for INR 40 lakh at the mega auction held in December last year. Despite having limited experience in the shortest format, he proved his worth by delivering a crucial spell against Delhi Capitals.

Zeeshan’s Impressive Bowling Performance

Bowling in the middle overs, Zeeshan broke the opening partnership by dismissing Delhi Capitals’ opener Faf du Plessis in his second over.

The former South African captain had already reached his fifty and had propelled DC to 81 for no loss in nine overs before Zeeshan struck.

The young leg-spinner followed up with another breakthrough in the same over, grabbing a sharp caught-and-bowled chance to remove Jake Fraser-McGurk.

In his third over, he clean-bowled KL Rahul (15 off 5), who attempted a sweep but was beaten around his legs. Despite conceding 42 runs in his four-over spell, Zeeshan’s three-wicket haul significantly impacted the game.

Zeeshan’s Domestic Cricket Journey

Zeeshan’s IPL debut was a result of his impressive performances in domestic cricket. Though he played just one T20 match for Uttar Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he made a mark in the Uttar Pradesh T20 League, representing Meerut Mavericks.

He emerged as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 24 wickets in 12 innings, including a five-wicket haul, playing a key role in his team’s title-winning campaign.

At the first-class level, Zeeshan has played five matches, securing 17 wickets. His consistency and skill in the domestic circuit paved the way for his inclusion in the IPL.

A Journey from U-19 to IPL Recognition

Zeeshan was a member of the India U-19 team that finished as runners-up in the 2016 U-19 World Cup. He played alongside future stars such as Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan, Washington Sundar, Avesh Khan, Sarfaraz Khan, and Khaleel Ahmed.

However, unlike his teammates, he struggled to break into senior cricket and remained on the sidelines for several years.

Despite limited opportunities, Zeeshan continued working on his craft. His standout performance in the UP T20 League caught the attention of SRH scouts, earning him a place in the IPL.

SRH’s Tactical Selection

Ahead of the match against Delhi Capitals, Sunrisers Hyderabad made a strategic change by including Zeeshan in the playing XI and leaving out pacer Simarjeet Singh. The move allowed SRH to keep an Indian substitute option for Australian spinner Adam Zampa.

Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, handed an IPL debut to KL Rahul, replacing Samir Rizvi. The decision to bring in Zeeshan raised eyebrows, but his performance justified the team’s call.

Struggles and Breakthroughs in Domestic Cricket

Despite being part of the 2016 U-19 World Cup squad, Zeeshan struggled for opportunities in senior cricket. He played five Ranji Trophy matches and a single Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy game for Uttar Pradesh but failed to cement his place in the team.

His performances in the UP T20 League were instrumental in reviving his career. Meerut Mavericks captain and KKR player Rinku Singh played a crucial role in utilizing Zeeshan effectively during the tournament, giving him the confidence to perform under pressure.

Coach and Experts Praise Zeeshan’s Talent

Former India player and U-19 selector Gyanendra Pandey praised Zeeshan’s determination and ability to handle pressure. “Usko Eid se pahle hi Eid mil gayi (He received his Eid gift early). He is a very hardworking bowler,” Pandey said.

Pandey acknowledged Zeeshan’s struggles in domestic cricket but emphasized that his talent was undeniable. “He was the highest wicket-taker in the UP T20 League, and that’s how SRH scouts picked him,” he added.

Challenges in Uttar Pradesh Cricket System

Zeeshan’s struggles highlight the challenges faced by cricketers in Uttar Pradesh’s domestic circuit. Despite his talent, he was overlooked for several seasons.

A former UP first-class cricketer pointed out that Zeeshan was ignored even when Kuldeep Yadav was away on international duty. “Well, hope that he finds something now. I believe both Vippy (Vipraj Nigam of DC) and Zeeshan can play for UP together,” he said.

Zeeshan’s childhood coach, Gopal Singh, recalled how the spinner’s career took an unexpected turn. “After the U-19 World Cup, he played Ranji Trophy and performed decently. But the next season, he wasn’t picked for any format,” Gopal said.

Support from Family and Well-Wishers

Zeeshan comes from a middle-class family in Hazratganj, Lucknow. His father, a tailor, supported his cricketing ambitions despite the financial challenges.

However, his journey wasn’t shaped by hardships alone; his skills and perseverance played a major role in his rise.

Coach Gopal Singh thanked Rinku Singh for backing Zeeshan in the UP T20 League. “A leg-spinner needs confidence from his captain, and Rinku provided that. That’s why Zeeshan caught the attention of scouts,” he explained.

A New Chapter in Zeeshan’s Career

After years of struggle, Zeeshan Ansari finally received his moment in the spotlight. His IPL debut against Delhi Capitals, though in a losing cause for SRH, showcased his potential.

With more opportunities, he has the chance to establish himself as a reliable spinner in the IPL and beyond.

Coach Gopal Singh, reflecting on Zeeshan’s journey, decided not to attend his debut match in Visakhapatnam. “Zeeshan had called and invited me, but I didn’t want to jinx it. Once he gets regular chances, I will surely be there at the stadium,” he said.

Zeeshan’s journey from U-19 cricket to the IPL has been full of ups and downs, but his talent and resilience have finally earned him a well-deserved breakthrough.