![Shaikh Rasheed playing for India [Source: @ICC/X]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1780742789940_ShaikRasheedIndia.jpg?type=hq)
Shaikh Rasheed playing for India [Source: @ICC/X]
India A’s squad for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka features several exciting young names, but few have travelled a tougher road than Shaik Rasheed.
The 21-year-old Andhra Pradesh batter has earned his place in the India A setup after years of consistent performances across age-group, domestic, and franchise cricket.
Born in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, Rasheed’s cricket journey was built on years of hurdles. His father, Shaik Vali, faced financial struggles while supporting his son’s ambitions. Those sacrifices laid the foundation for a player who would gradually emerge as one of India’s most promising top-order batters.
How Rasheed Came Into The Limelight?
Rasheed first caught national attention during the 2021 Under-19 Asia Cup, where he played a key role in India’s title-winning campaign.
His reputation grew further at the 2022 ICC Under-19 World Cup. Despite testing positive for COVID-19 during the tournament, the vice-captain returned in time to produce two of the most important innings of his young career.
In the semi-final against Australia, Rasheed scored a composed 94 off 108 balls after India lost early wickets. He then followed it up with a crucial half-century in the final against England, helping India lift the Under-19 World Cup trophy.
Also Read- All T20 World Cup Players Dropped By BCCI From India Squad for England, Ireland T20Is
Domestic Build Paid Off
While the World Cup made him a recognised name, Rasheed focused on building his domestic career. He made his senior debut for Andhra Pradesh in 2022 and quickly established himself as a reliable red-ball batter. His patience, sound technique, and ability to play long innings became his biggest strengths.
The 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season proved to be his breakthrough campaign. Rasheed amassed 627 runs at an outstanding average of 89.57, including three centuries.
His double century against Hyderabad and a century against Vidarbha highlighted his ability to dominate quality bowling attacks in first-class cricket.
His overall first-class record reflects that consistency. In 27 matches, Rasheed has scored 1,831 runs at an average of 46.95, including five centuries and nine half-centuries. His highest score remains a marathon 203, an innings that showcased his temperament and concentration.
Shaik Rasheed To Act In White-Ball Action
Although often labelled a traditional red-ball batter, Rasheed has also shown significant growth in white-ball cricket. In domestic T20 cricket, he has scored 533 runs from 30 matches at a strike rate of 122.25.
His unbeaten century against Arunachal Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy demonstrated that he can accelerate when required.
The Chennai Super Kings identified his potential early and signed him ahead of IPL 2023. After spending two seasons learning under the guidance of MS Dhoni and Stephen Fleming, Rasheed finally made his IPL debut in 2025.
Opening the batting against Lucknow Super Giants, he scored 27 off 19 balls and became the youngest player to debut for CSK.
What's Next For Shaik?
Now, his selection for the India A tour of Sri Lanka marks another significant milestone. With a tri-series against Sri Lanka A and Afghanistan A, followed by two unofficial Tests, the tour offers Rasheed a chance to push his case for higher honours.
For a batter who built his career through discipline, patience, and consistent run-scoring, the India A call-up is the latest reward in a journey that continues to grow exponentially.
Also Read- Gautam Gambhir Seen Consuming Mysterious Product In Dressing Room, Fans Worried
