Zeeshan Ansari made an impressive Indian Premier League (IPL) debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their match against Delhi Capitals (DC) in Visakhapatnam on March 30. Although SRH suffered a seven-wicket defeat, Ansari’s stellar bowling provided a glimmer of hope.
Batting first, SRH struggled and managed to score only 163 runs in 18.4 overs. While Aniket Verma’s explosive 74 off 41 balls gave some momentum, the rest of the batting lineup failed to capitalize on the favorable conditions. On the bowling front, Mitchell Starc stole the show for DC, claiming five wickets for 35 runs in just 3.4 overs, earning him the Purple Cap.
DC got off to a flying start, with Faf du Plessis smashing a quick half-century and Jake Fraser-McGurk benefiting from a few dropped chances. Ansari provided SRH’s first breakthrough in the 10th over by dismissing du Plessis, courtesy of a brilliant catch by Wiaan Mulder. He then removed Fraser-McGurk in the same over and later bowled KL Rahul around his legs. Ansari ended his four-over spell with figures of 3/42, earning praise despite SRH’s loss.
Who is Zeeshan Ansari?
Born in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Zeeshan Ansari is a talented leg spinner who first gained recognition in the UP T20 league. Playing for the Meerut Mavericks in the tournament’s second edition, he emerged as the highest wicket-taker with 24 scalps, playing a crucial role in his team’s title-winning campaign.
Ansari was also a part of India’s U-19 World Cup squad in 2016, sharing the dressing room with players like Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, and Ishan Kishan. He made his first-class debut for Uttar Pradesh in 2017 and played his last match for the state team in 2020. In five first-class matches, he picked up 17 wickets.
At the IPL 2025 mega-auction, SRH secured Ansari for INR 40 lakhs, banking on his potential to make an impact in the tournament.
What’s Next for Ansari and SRH?
Following his impressive debut, Ansari will aim to cement his place in the SRH squad for the rest of the season. Sunrisers Hyderabad will next face defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders on April 3 at Eden Gardens, a rematch of last season’s final. With his promising start, Ansari will look to build momentum and establish himself as a key player for his team.
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