Shivil Kaushik, a left-arm chinaman bowler, hails from the city of Udaipur in Rajasthan, India. He made his first-class debut for his state team in the 2015-16 season and quickly caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts with his unorthodox bowling action. Kaushik’s delivery stride involves a 360-degree rotation before releasing the ball, earning him the nickname ‘Shivil The ‘Baba’ Kaushik, a nod to his unorthodox style resembling that of a mystic or fakir. His unique action has baffled many batsmen and created a buzz in the cricketing world.
Early Life and Journey to Cricket
Shivil Kaushik was born on 9th October 1995 in Udaipur, a city known for its rich cultural heritage. Growing up, Kaushik developed a passion for cricket and idolized legendary spin bowlers like Shane Warne and Muttiah Muralitharan. He polished his cricketing skills by representing his school and college teams, honing his craft as a spin bowler. Kaushik’s determination and hard work eventually led him to grab the attention of the Rajasthan cricket selectors, earning him a place in the state team.
Rise to Prominence
Kaushik’s breakthrough moment came when he was selected to play for the Gujarat Lions in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2016. His unorthodox bowling action made him a distinctive presence in the fast-paced T20 tournament. Though he faced initial skepticism and doubts regarding the legality of his action, Kaushik’s talent and effectiveness silenced the critics as he picked up crucial wickets against some of the best T20 batsmen in the world. His ability to deceive batsmen with his unique style made him a valuable asset for the Gujarat Lions.
Playing Style and Impact
Shivil Kaushik’s bowling style is a captivating blend of traditional left-arm chinaman bowling with an unconventional, whirlwind action. He generates significant turn and bounce, often leaving batsmen perplexed due to the natural variations he extracts from the surface. His delivery stride with a 360-degree rotation not only makes him a tricky bowler to pick but also adds an element of surprise and mystery to his bowling. Kaushik’s impact goes beyond his wicket-taking abilities; he brings an enigmatic charm to the game, portraying a ‘never-seen-before’ avatar of spin bowling.
Kaushik’s presence in domestic cricket has continued to inspire budding spinners and has given rise to discussions on the artistry and innovation in cricket. His unorthodox style serves as a testament to the timeless allure of the sport and the endless possibilities it offers for those willing to challenge conventions.