Khaleel Ahmed was born in the Indian state of Rajasthan on December 5, 1997. He is a left-arm medium pace bowler who has played for India’s under-19 team.
Background
Khaleel grew up in Tonk, Rajasthan, and his love of cricket led him to play for the state’s under-16 and under-19 teams. Khaleel’s flamboyant talent was a product of legendary Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid, who served as his tutor and mentor.
Debut
On February 5, 2017, Khaleel made his T20 debut for Rajasthan in the 2016–17 Inter State Twenty-20 Tournament. In the 2017-18 Ranji Trophy, he made his first-class debut on October 6, 2017.
Rise to Glory
Khaleel’s success in the Tri-Nation tournament was outstanding, with 12 wickets in three innings earning him a place in India’s first eleven for the 2016 Under-19 World Cup.
In the same year, he was purchased for INR 10 lakhs by IPL team Delhi Daredevils, and he maintained a friendship with Rahul Dravid, Delhi’s icon and mentor.
Khaleel has featured in two first-class matches, taking two wickets at a strike rate of three per over. He’s also appeared in eight List A matches, taking 13 wickets at a 4.42 economy rate.
Khaleel has 11 T20 games under his belt, with a superb 17-wicket haul and a respectable 6.88 economy rate.
The young cricketer is now playing for India’s B team as well as Rajasthan.