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Over the years, cricket has been graced by legendary wicketkeepers like Adam Gilchrist, Mark Boucher, Ian Healy, Kumar Sangakkara, and MS Dhoni — all of whom have set high standards with their sharp reflexes, safe hands, and leadership skills. These glovemen have played pivotal roles in their teams’ successes, often turning matches with their brilliance behind the stumps and crucial batting contributions.
Mohammed Azharuddin names the number one wicketkeeper
Former Indian captain Mohammed Azharuddin recently hailed World Cup-winning wicketkeeper-batter Syed Kirmani as the “number one wicketkeeper in the world”. Speaking at the launch of Kirmani’s autobiography Stumped in Telangana, Azharuddin highlighted his exceptional wicketkeeping skills, especially against a spin-heavy bowling attack, and his vital role in India’s 1983 World Cup triumph.
“He is the number one wicket-keeper in the world. Such a wicket-keeper was never born. It was not easy for him to do wicketkeeping with four spinners. He took many good catches in the World Cup in 1983. Even in the match when Kapil Dev scored 175 runs (against Zimbabwe), he scored crucial 24 runs. I am very happy to attend this event today. May God give him a long life. People should also read this book and enjoy, and I hope it is successful,” said Azharuddin, as quoted by ANI.
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The impressive career of legendary keeper
Kirmani represented India from 1976 to 1986, playing 88 Tests and 49 ODIs. In Tests, he scored 2,759 runs at an average of 27.04, registering two centuries and 12 fifties, alongside 160 catches and 38 stumpings. In ODIs, he made 373 runs at 20.72, with 27 catches and nine stumpings to his name. Known for his sharp glovework and reliable lower-order batting, Kirmani remains one of India’s most celebrated wicketkeepers of all time.
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