Mumbai’s local cricket scene saw something extraordinary on September 22, 2024, when left-arm spinner Shoaib Khan claimed all 10 wickets in a Kanga League match. This rare achievement came in a game between Gaud-Saraswat Cricket Club and Jolly Cricketers, making Shoaib a standout name in Mumbai’s renowned Kanga League. While Shoaib’s performance didn’t happen on an international stage, his effort in this prestigious local league is one for the books.
18 Consecutive Overs: A Stamina Test for Shoaib
In this Division E match, Shoaib bowled an impressive 17.4 consecutive overs without a break, finishing the innings with all 10 wickets under his belt. His relentless spell saw the opposition, Jolly Cricketers, bowled out for just 67 runs in their first innings.
Shoaib’s perseverance and skill turned the tide of the match, as his team declared their first innings at 69 runs—a mere 2-run lead. Jolly Cricketers couldn’t mount a strong comeback in the second innings, managing only 36 runs for 3 wickets by the end of the game.
Shoaib’s Journey: From Clothes Shop Owner to Cricket History Maker
Shoaib Khan isn’t your typical cricketer. While many players focus solely on their game, Shoaib balances his time between playing cricket and running a clothes shop in Bhiwandi, a town near Mumbai. His cricketing talent, though, is undeniable. This isn’t the first time Shoaib has made headlines in local cricket—about a decade ago, he took 7 wickets in a Kanga League match for another club. But his recent performance, taking all 10 wickets, is a historic achievement that will be remembered for years to come.
A Reward for the Record-Breaking Performance
To honor Shoaib’s incredible performance, the owner of Gaud-Saraswat Cricket Club, Ravi Mandrekar, rewarded him with Rs 10,000. It was a fitting acknowledgement of a rare and remarkable achievement, which placed Shoaib among the few cricketers who have accomplished such a feat in any format of the game.
Although the Kanga League is a local competition, its importance cannot be overstated. Many great cricketers, including Sachin Tendulkar, have played in this league, making it a crucial stepping stone for aspiring cricketers in Mumbai. Shoaib’s performance adds another chapter to the league’s rich history.
A Bowler to Watch in the Future
Shoaib Khan’s achievement in Mumbai’s cricket scene has caught the attention of many, especially as India prepares to face New Zealand in a Test series where Ajaz Patel, another left-arm spinner, will be in action. Patel himself took all 10 wickets in an innings during a Test match in Mumbai three years ago.
With Shoaib’s impressive skill set and the buzz around his name, he could be one to watch in the near future. Though his feat came in a local tournament, his ability to deliver such a performance showcases a talent that could make waves beyond the Kanga League.
