Sanjay Bangar, a former Indian cricketer and well-known coach, has made a lasting mark in Indian cricket, not just as a player but also as a mentor. Recently, Bangar has also gained attention for supporting his son Aryan, who is now undergoing gender transition and has changed his name to Anaya. While Sanjay hasn’t publicly commented on the transition, it reflects the changing dynamics within families in Indian sports.
Here, we explore Sanjay Bangar’s career journey, his achievements in cricket and coaching, and his current net worth.
Sanjay Bangar’s Cricket Career: A Modest Start
Born on October 11, 1972, in Bhid, Maharashtra, Sanjay Bangar’s cricket career began in earnest in the early 2000s. He made his debut in Test cricket in 2001 and soon after joined India’s ODI team. Though his career as a player didn’t achieve superstar status, Bangar displayed consistent skill and determination.
In Test cricket, he played 12 matches, scoring 470 runs, which included one century and three half-centuries. His versatility also showed in his bowling, with seven wickets in Test matches. In ODIs, Bangar scored 180 runs and took seven wickets over 15 matches.
While he may not have become as well-known as his contemporaries like Sachin Tendulkar or Sourav Ganguly, Bangar’s steady performances laid the groundwork for his future career as a coach.
Rising as a Coach: Contributions to Team India and the IPL
After retiring as a player, Bangar turned to coaching, beginning his journey in 2014. He joined the Indian cricket team as their batting coach and served in this role until the 2019 Cricket World Cup. His coaching tenure with Team India saw him develop many emerging players, honing their techniques and confidence.
Sanjay Bangar also expanded his coaching career within the Indian Premier League (IPL). He was an important part of the coaching staff for franchises like Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings. His contributions to these teams earned him respect and recognition as a reliable coach with deep insights into the game, giving him the title of a “Mahaguru” of IPL coaching.
Sanjay Bangar’s Net Worth and Earnings
While Bangar’s career as a player didn’t make him a fortune, his shift to coaching opened up new avenues for income and recognition. Today, his estimated net worth stands at over ₹10 crore, thanks to his roles with Team India and IPL franchises. Coaching remains his main source of income, providing him with the financial stability he once lacked as a player.
Though Bangar maintains a low profile regarding his personal life, properties, and assets, his commitment to Indian cricket continues to be evident through his dedication to coaching roles.
Sanjay Bangar’s Legacy in Cricket and Coaching
Bangar’s story reflects the journey of a cricketer who may not have found superstardom on the field but emerged as a respected figure in Indian cricket. His career serves as an inspiration for aspiring players and coaches, showcasing that even those who don’t achieve fame as players can still significantly impact the game.
Whether through his quiet dedication to cricket or his supportive role in his family’s journey, Sanjay Bangar remains a figure of strength and integrity in Indian cricket.
