Ranji Trophy: Jammu and Kashmir pacer Sunil Kumar reaps rewards of patience against Hyderabad
For four years, Sunil Kumar waited — patiently and quietly. The 27-year-old left-arm pacer from Akhnoor, Jammu & Kashmir, was first spotted in 2021 by the team’s head coach, Ajay Sharma, but opportunities in First-Class cricket do not come easily.
He trained, travelled, and watched from the sidelines, absorbing every lesson from coaches and seniors, until Monday at the J&K Sports Hostel and Science College ground, when his perseverance finally paid off.
Sunil ran through the Hyderabad batting line-up to claim his maiden five-wicket haul, a performance that reflected both skill and years of preparation.
In an exclusive chat with Sportstar, an emotional Sunil expressed his joy. “Firstly, I’m feeling very happy and a little emotional. It’s my first fifer, something I’ll cherish forever,” he said.
Speaking about his performance, he added, “The plan was simple — stick to the basics, maintain a good line and length. The wicket was helping pacers, so I focused on hitting the right areas. When I got my fourth wicket, I thought the fifer might come.”
He credited Krishna Kumar, the bowling coach, for helping him change his wrist position for both in-swing and out-swing — a small adjustment that made a big difference.
“He corrected it, and that has made the difference.”
Sunil also thanked head coach Ajay, who first spotted him. “It’s been a great experience working with Ajay sir and the other coaches. I’ve learned something new every day,” he said.
Published on Nov 17, 2025
