Zeeshan Ansari makes his debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad in their IPL 2025 clash against Delhi Capitals in Vizag on Sunday, March 30. The youngster has been drafted into the side in place of pacer Simarjeet Singh as SRH aims to bounce back from their defeat to Lucknow Super Giants in their previous match.
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, SRH has handed Ansari his debut appearance for the franchise. The 25-year-old was bought for ₹40 lakh at the IPL mega-auction ahead of the season. So, who is this young talent from Lucknow, ready to make his mark in the IPL?
Who is Zeeshan Ansari?
Ansari is a former U-19 Indian cricketer, part of the same batch as Rishabh Pant. He caught everyone's attention during the UP T20 League, where he played for the Meerut Mavericks and finished as the highest wicket-taker of the tournament, claiming 24 wickets.
The 25-year-old has also featured in 5 first-class matches for Uttar Pradesh, taking 17 wickets. Ansari has often mentioned that he draws inspiration from leg-spin legends like Shane Warne, Anil Kumble, and Piyush Chawla, with whom he had the privilege to play in the UP T20 League.
Coming from a modest background, Ansari’s father, Naeem, runs a tailoring shop in Lucknow. Despite his standout performances in the UP T20 League, Ansari didn't get a chance to play in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy last season.
Zeeshan Ansari's Bowling Style
Ansari is an attacking leg-spinner known for his aggressive bowling. In the UP T20 League, he was primarily used in the middle overs and during the death overs. Out of his 24 wickets in the tournament, 14 came during the middle overs, highlighting his knack for breaking partnerships at crucial stages of the game.
