Murali Kartik was one of the best players to have represented India and was the prototypical traditional left-arm spinner. The best batters of his era were dazzled by his stunning high-arm action, which was straight out of a coaching guidebook. Kartik had all the tricks in his bag, including the traditional off-spinner, the arm ball, the floater, and the doosra.
Today is Murali Kartik’s 46th birthday, for the majority of his career, Kartik had to follow in the footsteps of experienced pros like Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh and was not able to cement his place in the Indian starting eleven. In first-class cricket, Kartik claimed 644 wickets and was a keystone of the Railways team. He was able to take 67 wickets in ODIs and Tests combined while playing for the Indian team.
Kartik started as a medium pacer in cricket, taking inspiration from Sir Garfield Sobers. Because of his short height, his coaches encouraged him to try slow-left-arm orthodox bowling. Then, he received coaching from Bishan Singh Bedi and Maninder Amarnath, two living legends of Indian spinning.
Kartik’s career was greatly shaped by the veterans, and he eventually rose to become one of the top spinners in domestic cricket.
A record was set by Kartik in the Irani Trophy when he took 9/70 in the second innings and bowled the opposition out for 184. He had the chance to take the tenth wicket, but Sarandeep Singh took it instead.
Throughout his lengthy career, Kartik played for many teams in addition to India, including the India Green, Kings XI Punjab, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Kolkata Knight Riders, Lancashire, Middlesex, Pune Warriors, Railways, Somerset, and Surrey.
After retiring from cricket, Kartik has continued to play a major role in the commentary scene by working as a pundit for broadcast networks.
Happy birthday Murali Kartik, best wishes for success in all he does, and hope that he continues to contribute through his commentary as usual.
