Name: Saurabh Netravalkar
Date of Birth: October 16, 1991
Birthplace: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Nationality: American (originally Indian)
Role: Bowler
Batting Style: Left-handed
Bowling Style: Left-arm medium-fast
Early Life and Education
Saurabh Netravalkar was born and raised in Mumbai, India. Known for his academic excellence, he pursued his schooling in Mumbai, where he balanced his studies with his passion for cricket. He completed his B.tech in Computer Sciences from Sardar Patel Institute of Technology in 2013. Netravalkar’s talent in cricket was evident from a young age, and he played at various youth levels in India.
Cricket Career in India
Netravalkar was a part of the Indian cricketing system from a young age. He played for the Mumbai Under-19 team and was selected for the India Under-19 squad. One of the highlights of his early cricket career was his participation in the 2010 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup. Netravalkar performed commendably as a bowler, showcasing his potential on an international youth platform.
Transition to the United States
After his stint with the Indian youth team, Netravalkar prioritized his education. He moved to the United States to pursue higher studies. Saurabh pursued higher education at Cornell University, one of the prestigious Ivy League institutions in the United States. He graduated with a degree in computer science, a field he was passionate about alongside cricket.
Cricket Career in the United States
While studying at Cornell, Netravalkar continued playing cricket at the club level, which kept him connected to the sport. His consistent performances caught the attention of the United States cricketing community. He began playing for local teams and quickly became a key player.
In 2016, Netravalkar made his debut for the United States national cricket team. His experience and skills were invaluable as he quickly became a leading bowler for the team.
Captaincy and International Success
Netravalkar’s leadership qualities and cricketing prowess led to his appointment as the United States national team captain. Under his captaincy, the team saw significant improvements and successes on the international stage.
One of his notable achievements as a captain was leading the United States to One Day International (ODI) status. This was a historic milestone for American cricket, and Netravalkar’s contributions were instrumental in this achievement. His disciplined bowling and strategic acumen played a critical role in the team’s performance.
Personal Life
Balancing a career in computer science and professional cricket, Netravalkar is known for his discipline and dedication both on and off the field. He currently works for Oracle as a principal member of technical staff (PMTS). leveraging his degree from Cornell, while simultaneously pursuing his cricketing career.
Netravalkar is also involved in promoting cricket in the United States. He participates in various initiatives aimed at developing young talent and increasing the sport’s popularity in the country.
Saurabh Netravalkar’s Wife: Devi Snigdha Muppala
Marriage Date:21 January 2020
Saurabh Netravalkar Father: Naresh Netravalkar
Saurabh Netravalkar Mother: Rama Netravalkar
Playing Style and Skills
Netravalkar is a left-arm medium-fast bowler known for his accuracy and ability to swing the ball. His disciplined approach and tactical mindset make him a valuable asset to any team. As a batsman, he is a left-handed lower-order player, contributing crucial runs when needed.
Achievements and Records
- ICC Under-19 World Cup 2010: Represented India.
- Captain of the United States national team: Led the team to achieve ODI status.
- Consistent performer: Regularly among the top wicket-takers for the United States in international competitions.
Saurabh Netravalkar Debut
List A Debut
- Date: Saurabh made his List A debut for the United States in the 2018–19 Regional Super50 tournament, the domestic limited-overs cricket competition in the West Indies.
- Performance: His List A debut helped establish him as a reliable bowler for the US team, contributing significantly in the limited-overs format.
Twenty20 International (T20I) Debut
- Date: Netravalkar made his T20I debut for the United States against the United Arab Emirates on March 15, 2019.
- Impact: As a T20I player, he has been an important part of the bowling attack, using his experience to mentor younger players and lead by example.
One Day International (ODI) Debut
- Date: He made his ODI debut for the United States on April 27, 2019, against Papua New Guinea.
- Milestone: This match was part of the ICC World Cricket League Division Two tournament, where the United States secured ODI status. His role as a bowler was crucial in achieving this milestone for American cricket.
Legacy and Impact
Saurabh Netravalkar’s journey from Mumbai to leading the United States national cricket team is an inspiring story of dedication, adaptability, and passion. He is a role model for aspiring cricketers, especially those balancing education and sports. His contributions to American cricket have been significant, and he continues to be a pivotal figure in the sport’s development in the United States.
Netravalkar has been instrumental in the USA’s success in the ICC T20 men’s WC, claiming 6 wickets at an average of 12.16 and an economy rate of 5.21. Best being 2/18
His wickets in the tournament include some notable players-
Rohit Sharma (India), Virat Kohli (India), Mohd. Rizwan (Pak) & Aiden Markram (SA)
Social Media Profile
Summary
Saurabh Netravalkar’s biography highlights his journey from a promising young cricketer in India to a leading figure in American cricket. His achievements, both on and off the field, reflect his commitment to excellence and his love for the game.
