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The recently concluded T20I series between India and South Africa not only witnessed spectacular batting displays but also showcased some remarkable bowling performances. One standout moment came from Kuldeep Yadav, who picked an exceptional five-wicket haul on his 29th birthday during the third and final game in Johannesburg.
Bowlers with four or more wickets in a T20I match on birthday
The remarkable feat from Kuldeep not only stole the limelight but also secured his place in the annals of cricketing history as he joined an exclusive club of bowlers who have managed to pick up four or more wickets on their birthdays in a T20I match.
1. Kuldeep Yadav (5/17) – India
On December 14, 2023, Kuldeep celebrated his 29th birthday in grand style by producing a stellar bowling performance against South Africa. His mesmerizing figures of 5/17 in Johannesburg not only marked a personal milestone but also made him the first bowler in T20I cricket to claim a fifer on his birthday. India emerged victorious in the match, defeating the Proteas side by a commanding margin of 106 runs.
It is worth mentioning that three bowlers have bowled for India in T20Is on their birthdays before Kuldeep, but none could touch the four-wicket mark.
2. Wanindu Hasaranga (4/9) – Sri Lanka
Wanindu Hasaranga, the talented Sri Lankan spinner, delivered a birthday performance to remember on July 29, 2021. Bowling against India in Colombo, Hasaranga scalped four wickets for just nine runs, playing a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s seven-wicket victory.
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3) Imran Tahir (4/21) – South Africa
The veteran South African leg-spinner Imran Tahir showcased his skill on March 27, 2014, against the Netherlands in Chittagong. Celebrating his birthday, Tahir achieved the remarkable feat of taking four wickets for 21 runs, contributing significantly to South Africa’s six-run victory.
4) Karthik Meiyappan (4/25) – UAE
Karthik Meiyappan, representing the United Arab Emirates, joined this exclusive list on October 8, 2021. Bowling against Ireland in Dubai, Meiyappan picked up four wickets for 25 runs on his 21st birthday, playing a crucial role in UAE’s 54-run victory.
