Zaheer Khan is one of the greatest fast bowlers India has ever produced. He has inspired many young cricketers with his skill, passion and determination. One of them is Akash Madhwal, a rising star from Uttarakhand who made his IPL debut in 2023 for Mumbai Indians.
Akash Madhwal was born in Dungra village of Almora district, Uttarakhand, but his family settled in Roorkee due to his father’s army job. He started playing cricket with tennis balls and developed a knack for bowling yorkers. He also became a close neighbour and friend of Rishabh Pant, the Indian wicket-keeper batsman.Madhwal’s talent was spotted by former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer, who was the head coach of Uttarakhand in 2019. Jaffer suggested him to take up red ball cricket and practice with the state team. Madhwal made his first-class debut in December 2019 and impressed everyone with his pace and swing.However, Madhwal’s biggest idol and inspiration was Zaheer Khan, whom he admired since childhood. He used to watch Zaheer’s videos and learn from his bowling style. He also got a chance to meet Zaheer personally and get some tips from him.
Madhwal said, “Zaheer Khan is my role model. I have always looked up to him and tried to emulate him. He has taught me a lot about bowling, especially how to use the old ball and reverse swing it. He also advised me to work on my fitness and mental strength.”Madhwal’s dream came true when he was picked by Mumbai Indians in the IPL auction in 2023. He joined the team that Zaheer had played for and won two titles with. He also got to share the dressing room with some of the best players in the world, such as Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and Kieron Pollard.Madhwal made his IPL debut in May 2023 against Lucknow Super Giants and took a sensational five-wicket haul, conceding only five runs. He broke the record for the best bowling figures by an uncapped player in IPL history and won the player of the match award. He also helped Mumbai Indians reach the final of the tournament.Madhwal said, “It was an amazing feeling to play in the IPL and perform so well. I am very grateful to Mumbai Indians for giving me this opportunity and trusting me. I am also thankful to Zaheer Khan for being my mentor and guide. He has shaped my cricketing journey and I hope to make him proud.”