Mayank Agarwal

Hailing from Karnataka, home to cricketing great Rahul Dravid, Mayank Agarwal has emerged as a dynamic and aggressive opening batsman reminiscent of a young Virender Sehwag. Known for his explosive starts, Agarwal has become a crucial player for his teams at both domestic and international levels.

Domestic Success and Breakthrough Performance

Mayank Agarwal first made headlines in the 2008-09 U-19 Cooch Behar Trophy, scoring 432 runs in five matches. He further showcased his talent in the 2010 U-19 World Cup, finishing as India’s top scorer. Agarwal then made his List A debut in the 2012 Vijay Hazare Trophy and his first-class debut for Karnataka in 2013, scoring 90 against Jharkhand. Despite early inconsistencies, his fortunes changed in 2017 when he scored his maiden triple century against Maharashtra. He finished as the highest run-scorer of the 2017-18 Ranji Trophy season and led the Vijay Hazare Trophy batting charts with 723 runs in eight matches.

National Recognition and Test Debut

The selectors took note of Agarwal’s incredible form, selecting him for the Test squad touring the West Indies in 2018. Although he didn’t play, his patience was rewarded with a call-up to the Australia series after Prithvi Shaw’s injury. Agarwal debuted during the Boxing Day Test, scoring an impressive 76—the highest by an Indian debutant in Australia.

Continued Success and Consistency

Overlooked initially for the 2019 World Cup, Agarwal was later called as a replacement, though he didn’t feature in the playing XI. In Test cricket, he continued to excel, scoring his maiden century, followed by a double ton against South Africa in 2019. His remarkable partnership with Rohit Sharma further solidified his role in the team, establishing Agarwal as a dependable figure in Indian cricket.

FAQs About Mayank Agarwal

1. What are Mayank Agarwal’s strengths as a cricketer?

Mayank Agarwal is known for his aggressive batting approach, especially as an opener, and his ability to build long innings, making him a key player in the team lineup.

2. When did Mayank Agarwal make his debut in international cricket?

Mayank Agarwal made his Test debut for India during the Boxing Day match against Australia in December 2018, scoring 76 runs in his first outing.

3. How did Agarwal’s domestic performances impact his national selection?

Agarwal’s standout performances in the 2017-18 Ranji and Vijay Hazare Trophies, including a triple century, played a significant role in securing his place in the national team.

4. What was significant about Agarwal’s performance against South Africa in 2019?

Against South Africa in 2019, Agarwal scored his maiden Test century, which he converted into a double century, reinforcing his capabilities as a top-order batsman.

5. How has Mayank Agarwal contributed to the Indian cricket team in recent years?

Agarwal has established himself as a reliable opener for India, contributing significantly with his batting alongside Rohit Sharma, and helping India in various Test match victories.