Introduction: The Spell That Announced a Star
On October 15, 2023, Arshad Khan, a lanky left-arm pacer from Uttar Pradesh, stood at the crease in Indore during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Defending 9 runs in the final over against Mumbai’s power-packed lineup, he delivered a searing yorker to dismiss Tilak Varma, sealing a thriller for UP. That moment wasn’t just a win—it was the arrival of India’s newest pace sensation. Today, Arshad Khan is a domestic stalwart, IPL hopeful, and a symbol of grit. This blog unravels his journey from Azamgarh’s dusty fields to the cusp of cricketing stardom.
Early Life and Background: Roots in Uttar Pradesh’s Cricketing Heartland
Born on July 12, 1998, in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Arshad Khan grew up in a family of farmers. His father, a sugarcane vendor, cycled him 30 km daily to the nearest cricket academy in Varanasi. Arshad’s talent for generating sharp bounce and swing with a slingy action caught the eye of coach Rajesh Kumar, who mentored him for free.
Key Early Milestones
- 2016: Took 7/14 in a U19 district match, breaking a 20-year-old record.
- 2018: Debuted for UP in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, dismissing Shubman Gill for a duck.
- 2020: Graduated with a BA in History while juggling cricket and part-time coaching.
Domestic Career: UP’s Pace Spearhead
Arshad’s ability to bowl at 140+ kph with pinpoint accuracy made him UP’s go-to bowler in crunch situations.
Domestic Stats (As of July 2024)
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Bowling Avg | Economy | Best Figures |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Class | 18 | 54 | 26.33 | 3.12 | 6/48 vs Bengal (2023) |
| List A | 32 | 47 | 28.90 | 4.85 | 5/32 vs Delhi (2022) |
| T20s | 45 | 59 | 20.15 | 7.40 | 4/11 vs Karnataka |
Source: BCCI Domestic Records
Notable Achievements
- 2022 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: 14 wickets at 18.21, UP’s leading wicket-taker.
- 2023 Ranji Trophy: 28 wickets, including a hat-trick vs Maharashtra.
- 2024 Deodhar Trophy: 12 wickets in 6 games, guiding North Zone to the title.
IPL Journey: From Lucknow Super Giants’ Net Bowler to Rising Contender
Arshad’s IPL journey began in 2022 when Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) signed him as a net bowler. His breakthrough came in 2024 after injuries to Mark Wood and Mohsin Khan opened the door.
IPL Career Stats (2023–2024)
| Season | Team | Matches | Wickets | Economy | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Lucknow Super Giants | 0 | – | – | Unused squad member |
| 2024 | Lucknow Super Giants | 9 | 13 | 8.20 | 3/25 vs GT, Player of the Match |
IPL 2025 Salary (Projected): ₹50–75 lakh (Sources: Cricbuzz Auction Analysis)
Recent Career Highlights (2023–2024)
- Ranji Trophy 2023/24: Match-winning 6/48 vs Bengal, securing UP’s quarterfinal berth.
- UP T20 League 2024: 15 wickets for Kanpur Superstars, earning Emerging Player of the Tournament.
- Duleep Trophy 2024: 9 wickets in 3 games, including a fiery spell vs West Zone.
Net Worth and Endorsements: The Financial Fast Lane
At 26, Arshad’s net worth is estimated at ₹1.2–1.5 crore ($150,000–180,000), driven by:
- Cricket Earnings: ₹60 lakh (domestic contracts, IPL fees, and match bonuses).
- Endorsements: ₹20–30 lakh (deals with SG Cricket, UP Tourism, and Patel Engines).
- Investments: Co-owns a sports equipment store in Varanasi.
Endorsement Portfolio
| Brand | Deal Type | Since |
|---|---|---|
| SG Cricket | Ball Sponsorship | 2023 |
| UP Tourism | Campaign Ambassador | 2024 |
| Patel Engines | Rural Brand Face | 2024 |
Personal Life: The Humble Farmer’s Son
Arshad’s life off the pitch is rooted in simplicity. He funds cricket kits for Azamgarh’s underprivileged kids and helps his family farm sugarcane during off-seasons. A devout Muslim, he observes Roza during Ramadan even amid matches. His Instagram (@arshadkhan.up) blends training clips, farm life, and motivational quotes.
Future Prospects: The Road to Team India
With India’s pace battery aging, Arshad’s left-arm angle and death-overs prowess could earn him a T20I debut.
What’s Next?
- 2024/25 Season: Target: 40+ Ranji wickets and India A selection.
- IPL 2025: Aim for 15+ wickets to secure a ₹2 crore+ contract.
- Global Leagues: CPL and LPL franchises expressing interest.
Conclusion: The Unyielding Spirit of India’s Heartland
Arshad Khan’s story isn’t about glitz—it’s relentless grind. From cycling 30 km for coaching to outfoxing IPL stars, he embodies Uttar Pradesh’s resilience. As IPL 2025 approaches, Arshad isn’t just chasing wickets; he’s proving that dreams forged in dust can shine on the biggest stage. Whether swinging the new ball or mentoring kids, he’s cricket’s quiet warrior—undaunted, unstoppable.
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! 🏏🔥
