Xtra Time Web Desk: Uttar Pradesh Sameer Rizvi had his dream fulfilled on Tuesday as he will get an opportunity to share dressing with idol MS Dhoni at Chennai Super Kings. Sameer became the highest earning uncapped Indian cricketer in the IPL 2024 auction held in Dubai. The youngster was brought by Chennai Super Kings for a whopping 8.4 crore. Sameer was involved in an intense bidding war between Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans with the former having the last laugh.
Sameer would not have been a crorepati cricketer at such a young age had he not received constant encouragement from his uncle Tankeeb Akhtar. Despite strong opposition from Rizvi’s father Haseen, Tanqib, a failed cricketer himself, saw potential in his nephew and constantly encouraged him.
Also Read: IPL 2024 Auction: Starc & Cummins among top five costliest buys
Sameer first came to limelight in 2019-20, when former India left-arm spinner Sunil Joshi handed him Ranji Trophy debut at the age of 16. One of the biggest facets of Sameer’s game is his ability to bat anywhere between Nos. 4 and 7. He is a floater, and ready to bat anywhere and has adapted to different roles as well. He can also be the finisher like his senior state team cricketer Rinku Singh.
Rizvi also garnered attention for his explosive batting style, particularly against spin, as showcased in the Uttar Pradesh T20 League and Syed Mustaq Ali Trophy. In the SMAT, he was among the top 10 six-hitters, with 18 maximums, striking at 139.89. The 20-year-old hit six every 11 balls. In the UP T20 league, he registered the fastest hundred, smashing 122 off just 47 balls. What was even more impressive was the strike rate at which Rizvi scores his runs. In the Men’s U-23 State A Trophy, Rizvi scored 455 runs at a staggering strike rate of 188.80 which paved the way for UP winning the title.
It will be dream come true for Sameer as he will get an opportunity to share the dressing room with his idol MS Dhoni at Chennai Super Kings. With the guidance from one of the sharpest minds in cricket, Sameer will hope to hone his skills and grab every opportunity that comes his way.
For more sports news: Click here