Natarajan

Thangarasu Natarajan, born on April 4, 1991, in Salem, Tamil Nadu, has swiftly risen to prominence in the Indian cricketing scene with his exceptional left-arm medium bowling. Fondly known as “T Natarajan,” he has showcased his talent across various formats, representing both domestic teams and the Indian national cricket team.

Early Career and Domestic Success

Natarajan’s journey in cricket began in the cricketing bylanes of Tamil Nadu. His ability to swing the ball both ways and deliver pinpoint yorkers caught the attention of selectors, earning him a spot in the Tamil Nadu Ranji Trophy squad. Natarajan’s consistent performances in domestic cricket soon led to his selection in various Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, where he showcased his skills on the big stage.

IPL Stardom and National Call-up

Natarajan’s breakthrough moment came in the 2020 IPL season while playing for the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). His accurate bowling and ability to execute yorkers at will earned him widespread acclaim, making him one of the standout performers of the tournament. His impressive performances in the IPL caught the eye of the national selectors, and he was subsequently called up to the Indian cricket team for the tour of Australia in late 2020.

International Debut

Natarajan made his international debut in the limited-overs series against Australia in December 2020. He made an immediate impact, showcasing his skills in both One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). Natarajan’s ability to bowl in the death overs and provide breakthroughs earned him praise from teammates and experts alike.

Test Cricket Debut

Natarajan’s dream run continued when he made his Test debut against Australia in January 2021. Despite being his first appearance in the longest format of the game, he impressed with his control and ability to trouble batsmen. His memorable performance in the series earned him recognition as a valuable asset in India’s fast bowling arsenal.

Playing Style and Strengths

Natarajan’s bowling style is characterized by his deceptive pace variations, swing, and impeccable accuracy. He possesses the rare ability to bowl yorkers consistently, making him a potent weapon in the death overs of limited-overs cricket. Additionally, his calm demeanor under pressure and willingness to learn have contributed to his success on the field.

Future Prospects

At 32 years old, Natarajan is entering the prime of his cricketing career. With his remarkable skill set and valuable experience gained from domestic and international cricket, he remains an integral part of India’s bowling attack across all formats. As he continues to hone his craft, Natarajan is poised to play a significant role in Indian cricket’s success in the years to come.

Thangarasu Natarajan’s journey from the streets of Salem to the international cricket arena is a testament to his talent, hard work, and perseverance. His rise to prominence serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers across the country. With his dedication and passion for the game, Natarajan has carved a niche for himself in Indian cricket and is primed to leave a lasting legacy in the sport.