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The roar of the crowd, the thrill of the pitch—every cricket fan remembers their first glimpse of a rising star. For many, that moment came in April 2025 when a young bowler stepped onto the field for Sunrisers Hyderabad. His name? Zeeshan Ansari, an emerging talent who turned heads with a stunning IPL debut.
Purchased for ₹40 lakh in the 2024 Mega Auction, Ansari proved his worth early. In his first match against Delhi Capitals, he took three crucial wickets, showcasing skills honed since his U-19 World Cup days. While teammates like Rishabh Pant rose to fame faster, Ansari’s journey reflects perseverance.
This article explores his career highlights, from domestic triumphs to that unforgettable debut. We’ll examine how his unconventional path led to this breakthrough moment. Stay tuned for match updates and insights into what makes this bowler special.
Who Is Zeeshan Ansari?
Growing up in a bustling joint family, cricket became his escape and passion. The Lucknow-born talent faced early hurdles, from financial constraints to skepticism from his father. Yet, the dusty fields of Uttar Pradesh shaped his relentless spirit.
Early Life and Cricketing Beginnings
Raised in a 19-member household, resources were scarce. His father initially dismissed cricket as impractical, pushing him toward academics. Undeterred, he honed his skills in local clubs, often skipping meals to practice.
Rejection from Uttar Pradesh’s U-14 and U-16 teams stung but didn’t stop him. Club cricket became his proving ground, where raw talent met grit. By 2016, he shared the field with Rishabh Pant in the Under-19 World Cup, though his role was limited.
Rise Through Uttar Pradesh Cricket
His breakthrough came via the non-traditional route—domestic leagues and sheer persistence. While peers soared faster, he climbed steadily. The Pradesh T20 League showcased his potential, leading to his First-Class debut in 2022.
Unlike Pant, who rocketed to fame, his journey was a marathon. Every setback—missed selections, financial strain—only sharpened his focus. Today, that resilience defines his career.
Zeeshan Ansari’s IPL Debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad
The ACA-VDCA Stadium buzzed with anticipation as a new spinner prepared to make his mark in IPL 2025. Sunrisers Hyderabad, led by Pat Cummins, faced a formidable Delhi Capitals lineup. The stage was set for a debut that would defy expectations.
A Memorable Performance Against Delhi Capitals
Replacing Simarjeet Singh, the rookie took 3/28 in his four overs. His victims? Faf du Plessis (caught at 50), Jake Fraser-McGurk (caught and bowled), and KL Rahul (bowled). Each dismissal showcased his control under pressure.
Key Moments in the SRH vs DC Match
Despite SRH’s collapse to 125 all out, Ansari’s spell stood out. His breakthroughs slowed DC’s chase at 119/3 in 12 overs. The spin-friendly pitch justified Cummins’ gamble, though SRH’s batting faltered.
Pat Cummins’ Decision to Include Ansari
Cummins’ choice to bench Simarjeet Singh for Ansari was tactical. The pitch demanded spin, and Ansari’s recent Syed Mushtaq Ali form, though inconsistent, hinted at potential. His debut Sunrisers Hyderabad performance validated the call.
- Strategic Swap: Simarjeet’s pace replaced with Ansari’s spin for pitch advantage.
- Dismissal Breakdown: Removed key batsmen during DC’s strong start.
- Context: SRH’s batting collapse overshadowed Ansari’s heroics.
Ansari’s Journey in Domestic and T20 Leagues
The Uttar Pradesh T20 League became the turning point for an unassuming spinner. While IPL glamor shines brightest, it’s often state tournaments like the Pradesh T20 League that mold future stars. Here, Ansari’s 24 wickets in 12 matches announced his arrival.
Breakthrough in the Uttar Pradesh T20 League
Playing for Meerut Mavericks, Ansari dominated the 2024 season. His 5-wicket haul dismantled oppositions, blending flighted deliveries with sharp googlies. The Mavericks’ title victory leaned heavily on his economy rate—under 7 runs per over.
What set him apart? Control. Unlike aggressive pacers, he outthought batsmen. Variations like the flipper, inspired by Piyush Chawla, became his signature. Scouts noted his ability to strike in powerplays—a rarity for spinners.
First-Class and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Stints
His first-class record (17 wickets in 5 matches) proved versatility. Yet, the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy exposed gaps—his lone match yielded 0/32. This paradox made his ₹40 lakh mega auction bid surprising.
SRH’s gamble hinged on potential. Jeddah’s spin-friendly pitches mirrored UP’s conditions, and Ansari’s 24-wicket season offered proof of adaptability. For a bowler with just one T20 trophy, it was a leap of faith—one his debut justified.
Conclusion
From Lucknow’s local games to IPL stardom, this spinner’s rise proves talent shines through persistence. His debut with Sunrisers Hyderabad wasn’t just luck—it was years of grinding in domestic leagues.
At 25, he’s a rare blend: a red-ball specialist who adapts to T20 demands. With 24 wickets in the UP T20 League and an IPL contract through 2025, his future looks bright. The team’s faith mirrors his potential for India A.
For aspiring cricketers, his journey is a lesson. Late bloomers can thrive, especially with platforms like the UP T20 League. Keep an eye on updates—this story is just beginning.
FAQ
When did Zeeshan Ansari make his IPL debut?
He debuted for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2025, playing against Delhi Capitals.
What was Ansari’s role in the SRH vs DC match?
He contributed with crucial wickets and economical bowling, impressing skipper Pat Cummins.
Which domestic leagues helped Ansari before the IPL?
He rose through the Uttar Pradesh T20 League and played in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
Why did Pat Cummins include Ansari in the playing XI?
His consistent performances in domestic cricket earned him a spot in the Sunrisers Hyderabad lineup.
What are Ansari’s strengths as a cricketer?
He excels in tight bowling spells and has shown adaptability in high-pressure T20 matches.
