Mohammad Azharuddin, Indian cricketer and politician

Mohammad Azharuddin, born on 8 February 1963, stands as a prominent figure in India's public life, recognized both as a distinguished former international cricketer and an active politician. Currently, he serves as the Working President of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee, a significant leadership role within the Indian National Congress party.

Azharuddin's illustrious cricketing journey saw him represent the Indian national team in an impressive 99 Test matches and 334 One Day Internationals (ODIs). Renowned for his elegant, wristy batting style and exceptional fielding, he made his Test debut in 1984 against England, famously scoring a century in each of his first three Test matches – a unique world record that still stands. He captained India in 47 Test matches and 174 ODIs, leading the team to notable victories and becoming one of the most successful Indian captains of his era, particularly in the shorter format.

However, his distinguished international career came to an abrupt halt in 2000 when he became embroiled in a widespread match-fixing scandal. Following a comprehensive investigation, which included a report by India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Azharuddin was implicated in the controversy. Consequently, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the governing body for cricket in India, imposed a lifetime ban on him, preventing him from participating in any cricket-related activities. This ban was a severe blow to his career and reputation, sending shockwaves through the cricketing world and prompting a period of introspection and reforms within the sport.

A significant turn of events occurred in 2012 when the Andhra Pradesh High Court, after reviewing his appeal, lifted the life ban imposed by the BCCI. The court ruled that the ban was "unsustainable" and "illegal," citing a lack of conclusive evidence and procedural lapses in the BCCI's original inquiry. This judicial decision effectively cleared his name of the specific charges and allowed him to re-engage with cricket, though his playing career was long over.

Post his cricketing career, Azharuddin successfully transitioned into politics. In 2009, he was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) from the Moradabad constituency in Uttar Pradesh, representing the Indian National Congress party. His political tenure has seen him remain actively involved in public service. Furthermore, in September 2019, he was elected as the President of the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), the governing body for cricket in the state of Telangana, marking his return to cricket administration and providing him with a platform to contribute to the sport's development at the regional level.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mohammad Azharuddin

When was Mohammad Azharuddin born?

Mohammad Azharuddin was born on 8 February 1963.

What was Mohammad Azharuddin's unique batting style?

He was renowned for his elegant, wristy batting style, particularly his leg-side flicks and deft touch, making him a distinctive batsman of his era.

How many Test matches and ODIs did Mohammad Azharuddin play?

He played 99 Test matches and 334 One Day Internationals for the Indian national cricket team.

Why was Mohammad Azharuddin banned from cricket?

He was banned for life by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in 2000 following his alleged involvement in a match-fixing scandal.

When was Mohammad Azharuddin's life ban lifted?

The life ban imposed by the BCCI was lifted by the Andhra Pradesh High Court in 2012.

What is Mohammad Azharuddin's current role in politics?

He currently serves as the Working President of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee.

What administrative role does Mohammad Azharuddin hold in cricket?

He was elected as the President of the Hyderabad Cricket Association in September 2019.