Who is Danish Malewar [Source: @vca_tweets, @viratkohli_live/x.com]
They say pressure makes diamonds and Danish Malewar just proved it on the grandest stage of India’s domestic circuit. In the ongoing high-stakes Ranji Trophy 2024-25 final, the young Vidarbha batter smashed a scintillating ton and left everyone in awe.
Malewar walked in with his side in all sorts of trouble at 24 for 3. The ball was talking, the pitch had some spice, and Kerala’s pacers were breathing fire. But Malewar was cool as a cucumber.
He dug in, soaked up the pressure, and then played an absolute blinder. His 168-ball century not only steadied the ship for Vidarbha but also sent a strong message that he is here to stay.
Who is Danish Malewar?
Not every cricketer is born with a silver spoon. Malewar’s story is one of grit, grind and sheer passion. His father, Vishnu, had a dream: to see his son make it big in cricket. But dreams alone don’t fill the pockets.
Coming from a lower-middle-class background, it was never going to be a cakewalk. Yet, Vishnu made sure his boy had everything he needed. Bats, pads, gloves; if Danish scored runs, people around him made sure he had the tools to keep going.
The journey from gully cricket to the Ranji stage wasn’t overnight. Malewar sharpened his skills in local tournaments before making his First-Class debut earlier this season against Andhra. A 61 in the second innings showed he had the game for red-ball cricket.
What followed was a series of consistent knocks: 56, 42, 59 and then came the big one, a maiden First-Class hundred (115) against Gujarat. The prodigy was making waves and the knockout rounds saw him step up when it mattered most.
A Batter For The Big Occasion
If there’s one thing that separates good players from great ones, it’s their ability to shine under pressure. Malewar’s performances in the knockouts showed he has nerves of steel.
A solid 75 against Tamil Nadu in the quarters, crucial runs (79 and 29) in the semis versus Mumbai, and then that masterclass in the Ranji Trophy final. He might be only 21 but he’s already proving that he belongs on the big stage.
The Future Looks Bright
Yet to make his mark in white-ball cricket, Malewar has his sights set on bigger things. His technique, temperament and ability to grind it out in tough conditions make him a serious prospect for higher honours.
With a Ranji season like this, it won’t be long before selectors take notice. The road ahead is long but if his recent performances are anything to go by, Danish Malewar is only getting started.