Abdul Samad

Abdul Samad Farooq, born on October 28, 2001, is an Indian cricketer known for his contributions to Jammu & Kashmir in domestic cricket and to the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He showcases his talents as a right-handed batsman and right-arm leg-break bowler.

Samad holds the distinction of being the third cricketer from Jammu & Kashmir to grace the IPL stage. His IPL journey commenced with his debut match against the Delhi Capitals on September 29, 2020.

Hailing from the scenic village of Kalakote in Jammu, Abdul Samad developed a passion for cricket at a young age, inspired by his idol, Rohit Sharma. Under the guidance of his father, Mohammed Farooq, who served in the department of youth services and sports, Samad honed his skills through rigorous practice sessions. A pivotal moment came when the family relocated to Sidhra in search of better educational prospects and cricketing opportunities. It was here that Samad's talent caught the eye of former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan and Jammu and Kashmir coach Milap Mewada during a trial. Samad's ability to handle fast bowlers with ease and his dynamic batting style impressed Pathan, setting the stage for his remarkable journey ahead.

Samad's career trajectory saw significant milestones, starting with his Twenty20 debut for Jammu & Kashmir in the 2018–19 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He continued to make strides in domestic cricket, making his List A debut in the 2019–20 Vijay Hazare Trophy and his first-class debut in the 2019–20 Ranji Trophy.

In the IPL, Samad was signed by the Sunrisers Hyderabad for the 2020 season. Since then, he has been a valuable asset to the team, showcasing his batting prowess and contributing to crucial victories. His performances earned him retention by the franchise in the IPL 2022 auction, highlighting his significance in the team's plans for the future.