Top 10 Youngest Cricketer In India: Cricket is a British sport that has found a special place in India. India has the world’s biggest and most dedicated cricket fanbase. The country has produced many legendary players who’ve shaped the sport.
India’s large population and tough competition for national team spots make it hard for new players. Despite this, a few young talents have succeeded and played internationally. They are seen as the future stars of Indian cricket.
Discovering young players in international cricket is exciting. It shows the sport’s potential future. This article ranks the youngest Indian cricketers by their debut age.
The list highlights the talents of these young athletes and India’s strong cricket system. By supporting young talent, India remains a top cricket nation.
We’ll explore these players’ stories, from their early debuts to their impact on Indian cricket. They’ve set records and started promising careers, showing the bright future of Indian cricket.
Top 10 Youngest Cricketers in India
1) Sachin Tendulkar – (16Y- 205 Days)
Sachin Tendulkar, the “God of Cricket,” debuted for India in Test cricket at just 16 years and 205 days. On November 15, 1989, he played against Pakistan in Karachi.
In his first series, he faced tough Pakistani bowlers like Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Imran Khan. Despite this, Tendulkar showed his talent, scoring 215 runs in four Tests. He quickly shone, hitting his first Test century within a year against England. This made him the second-youngest to do so.
Tendulkar’s career then skyrocketed, earning him the title of one of cricket’s best batsmen. He set records, including most Test and One Day International runs, and being the first with 100 international centuries. He also was the first to score a double century in One Day Internationals.
His early start led to a 24-year career that inspired cricketers and fans. It redefined cricket in India and globally.
2) Parthiv Patel – (17Y- 153 Days)
Parthiv Patel (17 years, 153 days) debuted for India as a wicketkeeper-batsman on August 8, 2002. This was during a Test against England at Trent Bridge. He became the youngest Test wicketkeeper in history.
Key points about Patel:
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Surprising choice: Patel’s selection over more experienced keepers surprised many. It was for a tough England tour.
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Strong start: Despite his youth, he scored 19 runs in his first innings. He also kept well against bowlers like Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh.
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Valuable innings: His unbeaten 19 in the second innings at Headingley was crucial in India’s win.
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Challenges: Patel faced competition, especially from MS Dhoni. This led to periods in and out of the team.
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Domestic success: He led Gujarat to their first Ranji Trophy win in 2016-17.
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Later career: He showed improved skills in his many comebacks. His last Test was in 2018, 16 years after his debut.
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Career stats:
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25 Tests, 38 ODIs, and 2 T20Is.
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934 Test runs, with a high of 71.
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72 Test dismissals (62 catches, 10 stumpings).
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Patel’s early entry showed India’s support for young talent. His story, marked by resilience and comebacks, inspires wicketkeepers aiming for India’s top team.
3) Maninder Singh – (17Y- 193 Days)
Maninder Singh debuted for India on October 24, 1982, at 17 years and 193 days old, one of the team’s youngest players.
He was a talented left-arm spinner, compared to Bishan Singh Bedi. In his first series, he took three wickets against Pakistan.
His career highlights include taking 7/27 against Pakistan in 1987 and playing a vital role in India’s 1987 World Cup win over Australia.
Yet, he struggled with consistency and faced tough competition from other spinners like Ravi Shastri and Narendra Hirwani.
In his career, he played 35 Tests and 59 ODIs, taking 88 Test wickets at 37.36 and 66 ODI wickets at an economy rate of 3.65.
After retiring, he became a cricket commentator and analyst.
Maninder’s career didn’t meet early expectations. Still, his debut and talent made a lasting impact. He represents the challenges and potential of young spinners in international cricket.
4) Harbhajan Singh – (17Y- 288 Days)
Harbhajan Singh, also known as “The Turbanator,” started his international career on March 25, 1998, at age 17 and 288 days. He played his first Test against Australia in Bangalore.
Summary:
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Promising start: Harbhajan struggled in his first match against a strong Australian team but showed his off-spin talent.
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Highlight: His big break was in the 2001 series against Australia. He took 32 wickets in three Tests, including India’s first Test hat-trick.
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Long career: He played for nearly two decades and became India’s best off-spinner.
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Achievements:
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Third in Test wickets for India (417)
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Key roles in India’s 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup wins
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First Indian with a Test hat-trick
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Stats:
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103 Tests, 236 ODIs, and 28 T20Is
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417 Test wickets at an average of 32.46
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269 ODI wickets with an economy rate of 4.31
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Two Test centuries, showing his all-round skills
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Controversies: Involved in the “Monkeygate” scandal with Andrew Symonds in 2008.
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Legacy: Known for his fighting spirit and clutch performances, he was vital in India’s cricket success in the 2000s.
Harbhajan Singh’s journey, from a young debutant to India’s top bowler, highlights his talent, determination, and adaptability. It also underlines how early international exposure can shape a player’s success. Harbhajan’s impact on Indian cricket goes beyond his stats. He inspired young spinners and played a key role in major victories.
5) Washington Sundar – (18Y- 80 Days)
Washington Sundar debuted for India on December 13, 2017, against Sri Lanka in Mohali at just 18 years and 80 days. He was one of the youngest T20 players for India.
Here are the key points about Washington’s career:
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Versatile: A left-handed batsman and right-arm off-spin bowler, he balances the team.
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Debut: In his first T20, he bowled economically, taking a key wicket and conceding only 22 runs in 4 overs.
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IPL: Before his international career, he stood out in the IPL with his powerplay bowling.
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Test debut: His Test debut in January 2021 against Australia in Brisbane was vital for India’s series win.
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Highlights:
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On his Test debut, he scored 62 and took 3 wickets at the Gabba.
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He was the youngest to open the bowling for India in T20s.
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A reliable performer in the IPL, especially under pressure.
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Stats (up to July 2024):
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Played 4 Tests, 4 ODIs, and 31 T20s for India.
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Scored 265 Test runs, best of 96*.
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Took 36 international wickets.
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Potential: He’s seen as one of India’s best young all-rounders, able to contribute in all cricket aspects.
Washington Sundar’s early start and performances underline India’s focus on nurturing young talent. He adapts well to various roles and thrives under pressure, showing promise in international cricket. His journey from a teenage debutant to a multi-format star highlights the need for versatile players from an early age.
His success also highlights T20 and IPL’s role in grooming young talents. Sundar’s story inspires others and showcases India’s cricket depth.
6) Prithvi Shaw – (18Y- 319 Days)
Prithvi Shaw debuted for India on October 4, 2018, facing West Indies in Rajkot. At 18 years and 319 days, he became India’s youngest Test cricketer.
Here’s a summary of Shaw’s debut and career:
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Debut heroics: He scored 134 in his first Test innings, becoming the youngest Indian to hit a century on debut.
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Early fame: Shaw was already famous for his youth cricket dominance.
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U-19 World Cup glory: He captained India to victory in the 2018 U-19 World Cup.
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IPL success: Shaw impressed with the Delhi Capitals, showcasing his aggressive batting.
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Notable achievements:
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Hit a century on his Ranji Trophy debut in 2016-17.
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Became the second-youngest Indian to score a Test century, after Sachin Tendulkar.
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Fastest Indian to reach 1000 runs in first-class cricket.
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Challenges: He faced injuries and a doping ban in 2019-20.
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Career stats (as of July 2024):
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Played 5 Tests, 6 ODIs, and 1 T20I for India.
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Scored 339 Test runs, with an average of 42.37.
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His highest Test score is 134.
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Style: Known for aggressive batting and quick scoring, drawing comparisons to Virender Sehwag.
Shaw’s quick rise and struggles highlight the challenges of young cricketers. It shows the need for consistency and mental strength.
His story inspires young cricketers to keep improving and never give up, emphasizing the role of hard work alongside talent.
7) Rishabh Pant – (19Y- 128 Days)
Rishabh Pant debuted for India on February 1, 2017, in a T20I against England in Bangalore. At 19 years and 128 days, he was one of India’s youngest T20 players.
Highlights of Pant’s career include:
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His aggressive batting.
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Test debut on August 18, 2018, where he became the first Indian wicket-keeper to take five catches in an innings.
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Setting records, like scoring the fastest fifty by an Indian wicket-keeper.
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Playing key roles in India’s historic Test series wins in Australia.
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His 89* at the Gabba Test of 2021.
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Becoming the fastest Indian wicket-keeper to reach 1000 Test runs.
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IPL success with the Delhi Capitals.
As of July 2024, Pant has played 33 Tests, 27 ODIs, and 66 T20Is. He has scored 2271 Test runs with an average of 43.67 and has five Test centuries.
Initially, Pant faced criticism for his wicket-keeping. Yet, he has shown significant improvements, especially in tough conditions.
Currently, Pant is recovering from a car accident in December 2022, which has paused his career.
Pant’s journey from a young debutant to a pivotal player in all formats highlights his exceptional talent and resilience. His game-changing innings, especially in Tests, have made him crucial for India.
His story also underlines the shift in demand for wicket-keeper batsmen. They now need to be both good batsmen and skilled glovemen. Pant’s fearless approach and clutch performances have drawn comparisons to the legendary MS Dhoni.
The cricket world looks forward to his return, highlighting the impact he has made. His story inspires young cricketers, showing them that talent, hard work, and fearlessness pave the way to success.
8) Ishant Sharma – (19Y- 120 Days)
Ishant Sharma debuted for India on May 25, 2007, in a Test against Bangladesh in Dhaka. He was 19 years and 120 days old. This made him one of India’s youngest fast bowlers in Test cricket.
Key points about Ishant’s career:
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Early promise: Despite a modest debut, Ishant quickly gained recognition for his height, pace, and bounce.
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Breakthrough: His performance against Ricky Ponting in the 2008 Perth Test is remembered as a key moment.
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Longevity: Ishant has enjoyed a successful career lasting over a decade, becoming a senior fast bowler for India.
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Achievements:
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Fastest Indian pacer to reach 300 Test wickets
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A key player in India’s Test wins abroad, especially in England and Australia
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Part of India’s first ICC Test top-ranking team in 2009
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Career stats (as of July 2024):
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105 Tests, 80 ODIs, and 14 T20Is for India
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311 Test wickets at an average of 32.40
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Best figures of 7/74 in a Test innings
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Evolution: He shifted from a hit-the-deck bowler to a versatile one, capable of swinging the ball and using the old ball effectively.
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Mentorship: Ishant has mentored young bowlers in the Indian team.
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Resilience: He overcame slumps and injuries, showing his determination.
Ishant’s journey from a teenage debutant to a seasoned player in over 100 Tests highlights the importance of perseverance and growth in fast bowling. His success has been crucial for India’s Test team. It underscores the value of adaptability and consistency. His story inspires young bowlers to be patient, work hard, and evolve. Ishant’s career also highlights the importance of experienced pacers in shaping future generations.
9) Rahul Chahar – (20Y- 2 Days)
Rahul Chahar debuted for India in a T20I match against the West Indies on August 6, 2019, in Guyana. He was just 20 years and 2 days old, making him one of India’s youngest T20 international spinners.
Notable points about Rahul’s career:
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A skilled leg-spinner, he quickly rose through domestic cricket and the IPL.
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His IPL success with the Mumbai Indians caught attention, helping them win titles in 2019 and 2020.
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In his debut T20I, he was economical, giving away only 27 runs in 3 overs to the West Indies.
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His ODI debut was on July 18, 2021, against Sri Lanka in Colombo.
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Significant highlights include taking 4 wickets in an ODI against Sri Lanka, his consistent IPL performances, and his inclusion in India’s T20 World Cup squad in 2021.
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As of July 2024, he has played 1 ODI and 6 T20Is for India, taking 7 T20I wickets at an economy rate of 7.61. His best T20I bowling figures are 3/15.
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He is Deepak Chahar’s cousin, highlighting their family’s cricketing talent.
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Rahul’s bold playstyle, effective googlies, and willingness to flight the ball set him apart.
His early success in international cricket highlights India’s strong spin talent and support for young spinners. His IPL performance was key to his national team selection, showcasing the tournament’s role in promoting young talent.
Rahul’s journey from domestic to international cricket underscores India’s spin bowling development. His attacking leg-spin adds depth to India’s options, especially in short formats.
As a young spinner, his progress and performances will be closely monitored across formats.
10) Suresh Raina – (20Y- 4 Days)
Suresh Raina began his international cricket journey on July 30, 2005, at 20 years and 4 days old. It was at an ODI against Sri Lanka in Dambulla. Despite a shaky start, he quickly emerged as a key player.
His skills were evident. He was a versatile batsman, known for his fierce left-handed play, solid fielding, and handy off-spin bowling. In 2010, he made his Test debut, scoring a century in his first innings.
Raina’s career is full of highlights. He was the first Indian to score centuries in all three cricket formats. Additionally, he was crucial to India’s victories in the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy.
In the IPL, Raina shone. He played 18 Tests, 226 ODIs, and 78 T20Is for India. His ODI average was 35.31, with 1605 T20I runs at a strike rate of 134.87. Furthermore, he took 36 ODI wickets and 13 T20I wickets.
Raina was an exceptional fielder, known for his quickness and sharp catches. He led India in ODIs and T20Is, showcasing his strategic skills. On August 15, 2020, he retired from international cricket alongside MS Dhoni.
Raina’s career underlines the importance of nurturing young talent. His success in T20 cricket and World Cup triumphs reflect the game’s evolution. His teamwork, composure, and adaptability are inspirational lessons for aspiring cricketers.
FAQs
Q1: When did Sachin Tendulkar make his Test debut?
A1: Sachin Tendulkar, often referred to as the “God of Cricket,” made his Test debut at the remarkably young age of 16 years and 205 days. He played his first Test match against Pakistan’s formidable fast bowling attack in Karachi on November 15, 1989.
Q2: How many Test wickets did Harbhajan Singh claim in his career?
A2: Harbhajan Singh, the iconic Indian off-spinner, took 417 wickets in his Test career. He achieved this impressive tally over 103 Test matches, cementing his place as one of India’s most successful bowlers in the longest format of the game.
Q3: Who is the second-youngest cricketer to play for India?
A3: Parthiv Patel holds the distinction of being the second-youngest cricketer to represent India in international cricket. He made his Test debut against England at Trent Bridge on August 8, 2002, at the age of 17 years and 153 days.
Q4: What are Rishabh Pant’s Test cricket statistics?
A4: As of December 2023, Rishabh Pant has scored 2,271 runs in 33 Test matches. His Test record includes 5 centuries, showcasing his ability as a game-changing batsman. It’s worth noting that Pant’s progress was temporarily halted in 2023 due to a serious car accident, limiting his appearances that year.
Q5: Who is the youngest Indian to score a Test century on debut?
A5: Prithvi Shaw holds the record for being the youngest Indian to score a Test century on debut. He achieved this feat at the age of 18 years and 329 days, scoring 134 runs against West Indies in Rajkot on October 4, 2018.
Conclusion
India’s youngest cricket debutants embody its cricketing strength and talent nurturing. From Sachin Tendulkar, who debuted at 16, to recent stars like Washington Sundar and Prithvi Shaw, India has consistently produced young talents who shine globally.
Their early starts highlight several key aspects. First, India excels at identifying and promoting young talent. It often gives promising players early opportunities. Secondly, these young players show remarkable mental strength in handling international cricket pressure. They come with various cricketing skills, from batting to bowling.
Many early debutants, like Sachin Tendulkar and Harbhajan Singh, have had long, successful careers. They shaped Indian cricket’s future. In recent years, the success of young players in T20 cricket reflects the sport’s evolution.
However, early debuts don’t guarantee long-term success. Players must manage international cricket pressures, maintain performance, and adapt their game.
India’s cricket, with its focus on young talent, continues to evolve. The success of early debutants boosts India’s global cricket status and signals a bright future for the sport. Their stories inspire young cricketers nationwide.
India’s youngest cricket debutants highlight the country’s deep cricket roots, strong domestic structure, and love for the game. New talents keep adding to this legacy, ensuring India’s leadership in global cricket.