Dilip Doshi, born on 22nd December 1947 in India, is a former cricketer who made a name for himself in the world of Test cricket despite starting his international career relatively late. He holds the distinction of being one of only two Test bowlers to have played their first Test match after the age of 30 and still managed to take 100 wickets during his career.
Before his foray into international cricket, Doshi honed his skills playing domestic cricket for Saurashtra. He made his Test debut against Australia and immediately caught the eye of cricket enthusiasts with his impressive bowling performance. In his first match, he emerged as India's best bowler, setting the stage for a successful career ahead.
While Doshi's early years in cricket were promising, it was his late entry into Test cricket that truly showcased his talent and determination. Despite initial doubts about his ability to compete at the highest level due to his age, Doshi proved his critics wrong with his stellar performances on the field. His ability to take wickets consistently earned him a place among the elite few in the world of cricket.
However, it was not just his bowling prowess that caught the attention of cricket fans. Doshi's batting skills, or rather lack thereof, also became a talking point. With a batting average of only 4.60, he is often considered one of the worst batsmen in Test cricket history. Despite this, Doshi's legacy as a bowler remains untarnished.
Cricket runs in the Doshi family, as Dilip's son, Nayan Doshi, followed in his father's footsteps to become a cricketer in his own right. The father-son duo shares a bond over their love for the game and their shared experiences on the field.
Throughout his career, Doshi represented Saurashtra in domestic cricket alongside fellow cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara, further cementing his place in the history of Indian cricket. His contribution to the game, especially in the latter years of his career, serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers who may be starting late but have the talent and determination to succeed.
Despite facing challenges and doubts along the way, Dilip Doshi's journey in cricket is a testament to his resilience and passion for the sport. His late blooming career serves as a reminder that age is no barrier to success, and with hard work and dedication, anything is possible in the world of cricket.