The selection of the young lad from Saharanpur to the national cricket team comes at a time when India is looking to rebuild and experiment with new talent
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — Aaqib Khan, a rising cricketer from the domestic circuit, has earned his maiden call-up to the Indian national cricket team. He has been selected for India ‘A’ team for the forthcoming ACC Men’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup, scheduled in Oman from October 18 to 27.
The selection marks a significant moment in Khan’s career, signalling his emergence as one of the most promising cricketers in the country. Hailing from Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh, he received recognition for his outstanding performance in the recent Duleep Trophy, during which he claimed eight wickets across two matches.
Aaqib Khan has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket, particularly excelling in first-class and T20 formats. His journey began with the domestic leagues, where he showcased exceptional skills as both a bowler and a batsman. Known for his sharp bowling variations, Khan has been particularly effective in the T20 format, with his ability to adapt to different match situations.
His breakthrough came during the Ranji Trophy, where he played a pivotal role for his team by taking key wickets and maintaining a strong economy rate. His performances did not go unnoticed, and soon he became a sought-after player in the domestic T20 leagues, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he was picked by a top franchise. His impressive stint in the IPL, where he played alongside international stars, further solidified his reputation as a bright prospect for the national team.
Khan is primarily known for his fast bowling, with the ability to consistently bowl at speeds exceeding 140 km/h. His control and accuracy in delivering yorkers and slower balls make him a lethal bowler in the shorter formats of the game. In addition, he has demonstrated the ability to swing the ball both ways, making him a potent threat in all conditions. His ability to maintain composure under pressure has been a key factor in his rise to prominence.
As a lower-order batsman, Khan has shown resilience and the ability to contribute valuable runs in crunch situations, making him a versatile all-rounder option for the team. His fitness levels and work ethic have also been highly praised by coaches and teammates alike.
On his selection for the India ‘A’ team, Aaqib Khan, while speaking to the Times of India, said, “I learned about my selection through social media when the squad was announced today. I am extremely pleased to see my name included. I extend my gratitude to the BCCI and the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association for acknowledging my efforts and providing me with this opportunity.”
The selectors see Khan as a potential game-changer, especially in the T20 and One-Day International (ODI) formats. His inclusion is part of India’s strategy to inject fresh talent into the squad and build a strong, competitive unit for upcoming international tournaments.
Aaqib Khan’s selection is a testament to his hard work, talent, and dedication. As he prepares to don the Indian jersey, cricket fans across the country will be eagerly watching his progress, hoping he can contribute to India’s success on the world stage.