Kozhikode, Kerala: Salman Nizar, a promising middle-order batter from Kerala, grabbed headlines with a scintillating knock of 99 runs off just 49 balls against Mumbai in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The 26-year-old cricketer from Thalassery, Kannur district, played a pivotal role in Kerala’s emphatic 43-run victory on Friday.
Nizar’s innings was a masterclass in power hitting, featuring five boundaries and eight towering sixes. His partnership with Rohan Kunnummal, who scored 87 off 48 balls, was the cornerstone of Kerala’s formidable total of 234/5 in 20 overs. Their 140-run stand for the third wicket in just 13.2 overs left the Mumbai bowlers struggling for answers.
Despite his impressive T20 credentials—an average near 40 and a strike rate of 135.93 in 24 matches before this game—Nizar went unsold in the IPL 2025 mega auction. This performance, however, underscores his potential to excel in the shortest format.
Born on June 30, 1997, Salman Nizar debuted for Kerala in first-class cricket in 2015, followed by his List A debut in 2017 and T20 debut in 2018. While his T20 journey began modestly with just six runs in his first match, he has since emerged as a reliable and explosive batter for his team.
The Kerala bowlers complemented Nizar’s batting brilliance, with MD Nidheesh taking 4 wickets for 30 runs to restrict Mumbai to 191/9. Although Mumbai’s Ajinkya Rahane (68 off 35 balls) and Prithvi Shaw showed promise, they couldn’t withstand Kerala’s all-around performance.
Salman Nizar’s knock not only outshone Mumbai’s experienced lineup but also highlighted his readiness for bigger platforms, making him a talent to watch in Indian cricket.
