S. Sreesanth, Indian cricketer

Shanthakumaran Nair Sreesanth, born on 6 February 1983, is a well-known Indian personality renowned for his multifaceted career as a former international cricketer and a film actor. Celebrated for his impactful presence on the field, Sreesanth was primarily a right-arm fast-medium-pace bowler, acclaimed for his ability to generate significant swing and seam movement, which often troubled batsmen. He also contributed as a right-handed tail-ender batsman, capable of adding valuable runs when needed.

Sreesanth's cricketing journey commenced with his home state, Kerala, where he consistently demonstrated his bowling prowess in first-class cricket, including the Ranji Trophy. A pivotal moment in his career was becoming the first player from Kerala to represent India in Twenty20 International (T20I) cricket, showcasing his talent on the global stage. He proudly played all three formats of the game for the Indian national team – Tests, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20Is. His contributions were instrumental in India's historic victory at the inaugural ICC World Twenty20 in 2007, where his crucial catches and bowling spells were memorable. He was also a part of the triumphant Indian squad that lifted the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, solidifying his legacy in Indian cricket history.

In the popular Indian Premier League (IPL), Sreesanth was a key player for the Rajasthan Royals. His fiery bowling, competitive spirit, and enthusiastic celebrations frequently drew attention, making him a fan favourite. However, his professional cricketing career faced a significant obstacle following the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal. Accused of involvement in spot-fixing – an illicit practice where specific aspects of a match are predetermined for betting purposes – he was initially handed a lifetime ban from all forms of cricket by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). After a protracted legal battle and an appeal to the Supreme Court of India, his lifetime ban was eventually reduced to seven years in August 2019, offering him a pathway back to competitive cricket.

Following the expiration of his revised ban, Sreesanth made a determined return to the Kerala cricket team in 2020, resuming his domestic cricketing career. This comeback was met with considerable public interest, symbolising a potential redemption for the skilled bowler. Beyond the cricket pitch, Sreesanth successfully diversified his career by venturing into the entertainment industry. In 2018, he garnered widespread recognition by participating in the highly popular Indian reality television show, Bigg Boss, where he finished as the runner-up, allowing audiences to see a different facet of his personality. He has also explored acting roles in films, further expanding his public image and career portfolio.

In March 2022, Sreesanth officially announced his retirement from all forms of domestic cricket, concluding a career marked by both outstanding cricketing achievements and significant challenges. His retirement brought an end to an era for one of Indian cricket's most captivating and discussed figures.

Frequently Asked Questions about S. Sreesanth

What was Sreesanth known for as a cricketer?

Sreesanth was known as a right-arm fast-medium-pace bowler who generated significant swing and seam movement. He was also an energetic fielder and a member of India's 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 Cricket World Cup winning squads.

Which teams did Sreesanth play for?

Domestically, Sreesanth primarily played for Kerala in first-class cricket and represented the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Internationally, he played for India in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.

What was the major controversy involving Sreesanth?

Sreesanth was implicated in the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal, leading to an initial lifetime ban from cricket by the BCCI.

When was Sreesanth's ban reduced?

Following a legal challenge that reached the Supreme Court of India, Sreesanth's lifetime ban was reduced to seven years in August 2019.

Did Sreesanth play for India after his ban was reduced?

No, Sreesanth did not play for the Indian national team after his ban was reduced. He resumed his domestic cricketing career with Kerala.

When did Sreesanth retire from cricket?

Sreesanth officially announced his retirement from all forms of domestic cricket in March 2022.

Has Sreesanth pursued a career outside cricket?

Yes, Sreesanth has ventured into acting, appearing in films, and participated in popular reality television shows like Bigg Boss, where he was the runner-up in 2018.