Abdul Samad (Indian cricketer)
Abdul Samad | |
|---|---|
| Born | October 28, 2001 Kalakote, Jammu and Kashmir, India |
| Occupation | Cricketer |
| Years active | 2019–present |
| Known for | Playing for Jammu & Kashmir, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Lucknow Super Giants |
Abdul Samad (born 28 October 2001) is a professional Indian cricketer who plays domestically for Jammu & Kashmir and represents the Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He is a right-handed batsman and delivers right-arm leg-break bowling.
As the third player hailing from Jammu & Kashmir to participate in the IPL, Samad made his league debut with Sunrisers Hyderabad during their match against Delhi Capitals on 29 September 2020.
Early life
Born on 28 October 2001 in Kalakote, Abdul Samad is the son of Mohammed Farooq, a professional involved in youth services and sports. Growing up in Kalakote village in Jammu, Abdul admired Rohit Sharma and practiced batting techniques inspired by him, often playing alongside his brother Taiyyab.
In 2009, the family moved to Sidhra to provide Abdul with enhanced educational and cricketing prospects. This relocation proved significant when former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan and Jammu and Kashmir coach Milap Mewada noticed him during a selection trial. At just 16 years old, Samad impressed Pathan with his ability to effectively drive fast bowling.
A defining moment in his career occurred when VVS Laxman, mentor for Sunrisers Hyderabad, was searching for a versatile middle-order batsman. Upon Mewada’s recommendation, Abdul Samad was introduced to the Indian Premier League platform.
Career
Abdul began his Twenty20 career with Jammu & Kashmir in the 2018–19 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on 21 February 2019. He made his debut in List A matches on 27 September 2019 during the 2019–20 Vijay Hazare Trophy, followed by his first appearance in first-class cricket on 9 December 2019 in the 2019–20 Ranji Trophy.
In the 2020 Indian Premier League, he was signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad, marking his debut on 29 September 2020 against the Delhi Capitals. Across 28 IPL games, he accumulated 288 runs. The franchise chose to retain him ahead of the IPL 2022 auction. Subsequently, at the IPL 2025 Mega Auction, Abdul Samad was purchased by the Lucknow Super Giants for ₹4.2 crore.