Happy Birthday Mohammad Azharuddin: Top Controversies And Records Of Former India Captain - In Pics
Mohammad Azharuddin, the former captain of the Indian cricket team, embodies a paradoxical tale of soaring achievements and profound controversies. Celebrated for his exquisite batting prowess and impeccable fielding, Azharuddin's career was marred by the infamous match-fixing scandal that shook the foundations of cricket. As he celebrates his 61st birthday, we delve into the enigmatic persona of Azharuddin, exploring the top controversies that shadowed his illustrious career, alongside his remarkable records that etched his name in cricketing history.
Match-Fixing Allegations:
Azharuddin's career was marred by the match-fixing scandal of the late 90s, where he was accused of involvement in fixing international matches, leading to a lifetime ban by the BCCI.
Hansie Cronje's Accusation:
South African captain Hansie Cronje implicated Azharuddin in match-fixing, claiming he introduced Cronje to bookies, further tarnishing Azharuddin's reputation.
Legal Battle for Redemption:
Azharuddin faced a lengthy legal battle to clear his name, enduring years of scrutiny and criticism before finally being acquitted by the Andhra Pradesh High Court in 2012.
Controversial Captaincy:
Despite leading India in three World Cups, Azharuddin's tenure as captain was overshadowed by controversies, especially surrounding the match-fixing scandal and questions about his leadership.
Political Foray and Personal Turmoil:
Azharuddin's entry into politics and his tumultuous personal life, including his marriages and divorces, added further layers of controversy to his already tumultuous career.
Historic Debut Centuries:
Azharuddin made history by scoring centuries in his first three Test matches, a feat that remains unmatched in cricket history, showcasing his exceptional talent from the outset.
World Cup Leadership:
Azharuddin captained India in three World Cups, leading the team to significant victories and cementing his legacy as one of India's most prominent cricketing figures.
Stellar Batting Career:
With over 6,000 runs in Test cricket and nearly 10,000 runs in ODIs, Azharuddin established himself as one of India's finest batsmen, displaying elegance and power in equal measure.
Fielding Prowess:
Known for his exceptional fielding skills, Azharuddin set new standards in Indian cricket with his agility, sharp reflexes, and remarkable catches, becoming a role model for aspiring cricketers.
Unique Century Records:
Azharuddin's ability to score centuries under pressure and with remarkable speed set him apart. He holds the record for scoring three consecutive centuries in his first three Tests, and also the record for the fastest ODI century by an Indian at that time, with a 62-ball century.
Trending Photos