Navdeep Saini: Fast Bowling Career and Recent Updates

Image: Navdeep Saini in action for Team India

Early Life and Domestic Career

Born on November 23, 1992 in Karnal, Haryana, Navdeep Amarjeet Saini began his cricket journey through Rajasthan's club circuit before making his Ranji Trophy debut for Delhi in 2013. His raw pace and ability to generate bounce quickly caught selectors' attention.

Key domestic achievements:

• 2018/19 Ranji Trophy: 34 wickets in 8 matches
• Vijay Hazare Trophy 2019: 12 wickets at 19.91 economy

IPL Breakthrough

Royal Challengers Bangalore signed Saini in 2018. His standout seasons:

His 152.85 kph delivery against Gujarat Lions in 2019 remains among IPL's fastest recorded balls.

International Career Highlights

• T20I Debut: August 3, 2019 vs West Indies
• Test Debut: December 26, 2020 vs Australia (Melbourne)
• ODI Debut: February 5, 2020 vs New Zealand

Notable performances:

• 3/17 vs West Indies (Lauderhill, 2019)
• 2/2 in debut ODI over against New Zealand
• Crucial 23* in Test debut alongside Rishabh Pant

Recent Form and Injury Updates

After missing much of 2022-23 due to back stress fractures, Saini returned to domestic cricket:

• 2023 Ranji Trophy: 11 wickets in 3 matches for Rajasthan
• 2024 IPL: Limited appearances for Kolkata Knight Riders

Recent reports suggest he's working with NCA coaches to refine his red-ball skills ahead of 2024-25 domestic season.

Bowling Style and Speed

Saini's key attributes:

• Natural length: Back-of-length
• Special deliveries: Seaming yorkers, steep bouncers
• Top recorded speed: 153.7 kph

Future Prospects

With India seeking genuine fast bowling depth, Saini remains in contention for:

• Test squad for overseas tours
• Backup T20 World Cup options
• Domestic leadership roles

Current Teams:

• Rajasthan (Domestic)
• Kolkata Knight Riders (IPL)

Last updated: July 2024

Career Statistics (International):