Early Life and Background
Born on November 11, 1997 in Bathinda, Punjab, Mayank Markande emerged from a region not traditionally known for producing spinners to become one of India’s most promising leg-break bowlers. His journey from playing tennis-ball cricket in Punjab’s dusty grounds to representing India in international cricket is a testament to his skill and perseverance.
Cricket Career Beginnings
Markande’s talent was first recognized during his performances in age-group cricket for Punjab. His ability to bowl accurate leg-breaks and googlies with a quick arm action made him stand out early in his career. He rose through the ranks, representing India Under-19s before making his senior domestic debut.
Domestic Career Highlights
First-Class Cricket
- Debut: 2018-19 season for Punjab
- Best Figures: 6/59 against Vidarbha
- Total Wickets: 117 at an average of 24.06
- Known for his ability to bowl long spells with consistent line and length
List A Cricket
- 104 wickets at 24.21 average
- Best Figures: 4/14
- Key bowler for Punjab in Vijay Hazare Trophy
T20 Career
- 92 wickets in 87 matches
- Economy Rate: 7.80
- Best Figures: 4/4 (joint most economical 4-wicket haul in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy)
IPL Journey
Markande burst onto the IPL scene in 2018 with Mumbai Indians, where his performances made him one of the finds of the season.
IPL Career Stats
| Season | Team | Matches | Wickets | Best Figures | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | MI | 14 | 15 | 4/23 | 8.36 |
| 2019 | MI | 3 | 1 | 1/25 | 9.57 |
| 2020 | RR | 7 | 5 | 2/21 | 9.19 |
| 2022 | RR | 6 | 6 | 2/21 | 7.86 |
| 2023 | SRH | 12 | 12 | 4/15 | 8.69 |
Memorable IPL Performances
- 2018 season: Took crucial wickets including Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers in same match
- 2023 season: 4/15 against Delhi Capitals, the best figures by an SRH bowler that season
- Known for his ability to bowl in powerplays and middle overs
International Career
- T20I Debut: 2023 against West Indies
- Part of India A squads for several series
- Considered a strong contender for future national team selection
Bowling Style and Strengths
Markande is a classical leg-spinner with several weapons in his arsenal:
- Leg-break: His stock delivery with good dip and turn
- Googly: Well-disguised and effective against right-handers
- Flipper: Used as a surprise weapon
- Quick arm action: Makes it difficult for batsmen to pick variations
His ability to maintain an economical rate while taking wickets makes him valuable in all formats.
Recent Performances and Future Prospects
In the 2024 domestic season, Markande has been among the leading wicket-takers for Punjab. His consistent performances keep him in contention for:
- A recall to the Indian T20I squad
- Potentially an ODI debut
- Becoming a mainstay in the Sunrisers Hyderabad bowling attack
At 27 years old, Markande is entering what are typically a spinner’s peak years. With his skills and experience, he remains one of India’s most promising spin prospects across formats.
