Introduction: The Catch That Changed Everything
On April 9, 2023, Anuj Rawat, a 23-year-old wicketkeeper from Uttarakhand, pulled off a gravity-defying catch to dismiss Sanju Samson in an IPL match. Leaping full-stretch at the Rajasthan Royals’ dugout boundary, he snatched a certain six, igniting roars from the Bengaluru crowd. That moment wasn’t just a highlight—it was the arrival of a player who’d spent years toiling in anonymity. Today, Rawat is IPL’s quiet workhorse, a domestic stalwart, and a testament to perseverance. This blog unravels his journey from Himalayan foothills to cricket’s glitzy arenas.
Early Life and Background: From Uttarakhand’s Valleys to Delhi’s Grind
Born on October 17, 1999, in Ramnagar, Uttarakhand, Anuj Rawat grew up in a region better known for trekking trails than turf pitches. His father, a schoolteacher, sold his motorcycle to buy Anuj’s first cricket kit. At 14, he moved to Delhi, sleeping in academy dormitories and surviving on ₹100-a-day stipends. Coach Rajkumar Sharma (Virat Kohli’s mentor) spotted his wicketkeeping reflexes during a local tournament, reshaping his raw talent.
Key Early Milestones
- 2015: Scored 98* in a U16 inter-school match, breaking Delhi’s junior record.
- 2017: Debuted for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy at 17.
- 2018: Named captain of India U19 for the ACC Emerging Teams Cup.
Domestic Career: Delhi’s Dependable Gloveman
Rawat’s gritty batting and lightning-quick stumpings made him Delhi’s crisis man.
Domestic Stats (As of July 2024)
| Format | Matches | Runs | Batting Avg | Strike Rate | Catches/Stumpings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Class | 27 | 1,324 | 38.94 | 62.50 | 68/12 |
| List A | 39 | 987 | 34.03 | 82.70 | 54/9 |
| T20s | 66 | 872 | 25.64 | 128.90 | 42/6 |
Source: BCCI Domestic Records
Notable Achievements
- 2022 Ranji Trophy: 612 runs at 47.38, including 143* vs Maharashtra.
- 2023 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: 214 runs at 145.00 SR, Delhi’s top scorer.
- 2024 Vijay Hazare Trophy: 78* off 49 balls vs Karnataka in a chase of 289.
IPL Journey: From Royal Challengers Bangalore to Rajasthan Royals’ Redemption
Rawat’s IPL career began in 2022 when RCB signed him for ₹3.4 crore. Despite limited chances, his work ethic impressed mentors.
IPL Career Stats (2022–2024)
| Season | Team | Matches | Runs | Strike Rate | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 8 | 129 | 118.34 | 26* (17) vs GT, 3 catches |
| 2023 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 5 | 47 | 102.17 | Benched mid-season |
| 2024 | Rajasthan Royals | 12 | 214 | 136.94 | 57 (33) vs SRH, 8 dismissals* |
IPL 2025 Salary (Projected): ₹2–3 crore (Sources: Cricbuzz Auction Analysis)
Recent Career Highlights (2023–2024)
- Ranji Trophy 2023/24: Match-winning 89* vs Mumbai, surviving 278 balls.
- IPL 2024: Fastest fifty by an uncapped Indian keeper (24 balls) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad.
- Deodhar Trophy 2024: 12 dismissals in 6 games, guiding North Zone to the title.
Net Worth and Endorsements: The Steady Climb
At 24, Rawat’s net worth is estimated at ₹5–7 crore ($600,000–840,000), driven by:
- Cricket Earnings: ₹4 crore (IPL salaries + domestic contracts).
- Endorsements: ₹1–1.5 crore (deals with SS Ton, Himalayan Gear, and Delhi Tourism).
- Investments: Co-owns a cricket academy in Dehradun and a café in Delhi.
Endorsement Portfolio
| Brand | Deal Type | Since |
|---|---|---|
| SS Ton | Bat Sponsorship | 2022 |
| Himalayan Gear | Brand Ambassador | 2023 |
| Delhi Tourism | Campaign Face | 2024 |
Personal Life: The Mountain’s Child
Rawat’s off-field life is rooted in humility. He funds scholarships for Uttarakhand’s tribal cricketers and practices Vipassana meditation. A dog lover, he adopted three strays during the COVID-19 pandemic. His Instagram (@anujrawat.19) blends mountain treks, gym sessions, and throwbacks to Delhi’s league matches.
Future Prospects: The Underdog’s Ascent
With KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan juggling national duties, Rawat eyes a T20I debut as a backup keeper-batter.
What’s Next?
- 2024/25 Season: Target: 800+ Ranji runs and India A selection.
- IPL 2025: Secure a starting role and ₹5+ crore contract.
- Global Leagues: CPL and BBL franchises scouting him.
Conclusion: The Quiet Symphony of Persistence
Anuj Rawat’s story isn’t about auctions or fame—it’s resilience personified. From selling his father’s bike to snatching IPL stunners, he’s cricket’s unsung melody. As IPL 2025 approaches, Rawat isn’t chasing spotlights; he’s scripting a saga where grit outshines glamour. Whether donning gloves or scaling peaks, he’s proof that silent perseverance always finds its echo.
Cricket isn’t just a sport; it’s a playground for stories, and I’m here to tell them with humor, creativity, and a touch of flair. Whether it’s the thrill of an IPL last-over finish or the quirks of a rising star, my words bring the game alive for the next-gen audience. Like an unorthodox stroke that surprises the bowler, my take on cricket is anything but predictable. And if you ask what’s on my mind—well, cricket, always cricket! 🏏🔥
