Abhinav Manohar Sadarangani, born on September 16, 1994, in Bangalore, Karnataka, has emerged as a prominent figure in Indian cricket. Known for his explosive batting and leg-break bowling, Manohar's journey from domestic circuits to the grand stage of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is a testament to his dedication and skill.
Early Life and Domestic Career
Manohar's cricketing journey began in the bustling streets of Bangalore, where he showcased an innate talent for the sport. Under the mentorship of Irfan Sait, a close family friend, he honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of the game. Despite facing challenges, including weight issues and the stiff competition within the Karnataka state team, Manohar's perseverance never wavered. His consistent performances for the Bangalore United Cricket Club in the Karnataka State Cricket Association's first-division league highlighted his potential as a formidable batsman.
The COVID-19 pandemic delayed his entry into the state team, but once given the opportunity, Manohar seized it with both hands. He made his T20 debut for Karnataka in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on November 16, 2021, against Saurashtra, where he played a pivotal role by scoring an unbeaten 70 off 49 balls, leading his team to victory. His performance in the tournament was commendable, amassing 162 runs in four innings at a strike rate of 150.
IPL Breakthrough with Gujarat Titans
Manohar's domestic success caught the attention of IPL scouts, leading to a bidding war during the 2022 mega auction. The Gujarat Titans (GT) secured his services for INR 2.6 crore, a significant increase from his base price, reflecting the high expectations placed upon him. He made his IPL debut against the Lucknow Super Giants on March 28, 2022, contributing valuable runs in the middle order. Throughout the season, Manohar played eight matches, accumulating 108 runs with a highest score of 43 against the Rajasthan Royals. His contributions were instrumental in GT clinching their maiden IPL title that year.
Continued Development and Recent Performances
The following IPL season in 2023 saw Manohar continue his development as a reliable middle-order batsman. In six innings across nine games, he scored 114 runs, with a notable 42 off 21 balls against the Mumbai Indians. Despite GT's inability to defend their title that year, Manohar's performances solidified his reputation as a dependable finisher.
Manohar's domestic prowess was further evident in the Maharaja T20 Trophy 2024, where he represented the Shivamogga Lions. He amassed 507 runs in 10 innings at an astounding average of 84.50 and a strike rate of 196.51. His ability to clear the boundary was unmatched, as he smashed 52 sixes in the tournament, including three innings where he hit nine sixes each—a record in the competition's history.
Playing Style and Technique
Manohar's batting style is characterized by aggressive stroke play and an uncanny ability to find gaps in the field. His power-hitting capabilities make him a valuable asset in the T20 format, where quick runs are essential. In addition to his batting prowess, Manohar's leg-spin bowling adds a strategic dimension to his game, allowing his team to utilize him as a versatile all-rounder.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Manohar aims to cement his place in the Karnataka List A side and make his mark in first-class cricket—a format he has yet to debut in. He believes that consistent performances in domestic cricket and the IPL could pave the way for an international call-up. His ambition to don the Indian jersey is fueled by his recent successes and the belief that he is just a few standout seasons away from national selection.
Conclusion
Abhinav Manohar's journey from the local circuits of Karnataka to the grand arenas of the IPL exemplifies the impact of talent, hard work, and perseverance. As he continues to evolve as a cricketer, the future holds promising prospects for this dynamic batsman and bowler.