Saurabh Netravalkar: The US Cricketer Who Once Played for India
Indian-origin cricketer Saurabh Netravalkar leads Team USA to the Super 8 stage in their T20 World Cup debut.
Team USA has made history by qualifying for the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup in their debut year, thanks to outstanding performances by their players, especially star bowler Saurabh Netravalkar. This remarkable achievement marks a new era for cricket in the United States.
Saurabh Netravalkar, born on October 16, 1991, in India, is a left-arm medium-fast bowler and software engineer. He played for India’s under-19 World Cup team and was the leading wicket-taker for India in the 2010 U19 World Cup in New Zealand. Despite his talent, he struggled to secure a spot in the Mumbai Ranji team and decided to pursue a Master’s degree in computer science at Cornell University in the US in 2016.
After moving to the US, Saurabh initially left cricket but later joined a local cricket club near his workplace in California. Encouraged by his coach, he began playing for Team USA. In 2019, after changes in ICC rules, he became eligible to represent the US at the international level.
Netravalkar played a crucial role in Team USA's victory over Pakistan, taking key wickets, including those of Virat Kohli and Captain Rohit Sharma, in the USA-India match. His performance has been widely praised, and his transition reel from the Indian jersey to the USA jersey went viral, sparking mixed reactions.
Saurabh balances his cricketing career with his job as an AI engineer at Oracle. His company has been very supportive, allowing him to take leave during the T20 World Cup. Saurabh practices in a world-class gym at his workplace and often travels on weekends for club matches, resuming work on Mondays.
After qualifying for the Super 8, Saurabh informed his office about his extended leave, and his colleagues have been cheering him on. Fans have also urged his company to give him more support, including a pay hike and time off to play in the IPL.
Saurabh Netravalkar’s inspiring journey from India to the US cricket team showcases his dedication and passion for the sport. Along with other Indian-origin cricketers in the World Cup, he is making a significant impact and bringing pride to both his home and adopted countries.
