Jobaaj Stories
Karim Janat's IPL Debut: A Rocky Start for Afghan All-Rounder
The Indian Premier League (IPL) saw history made on April 28, 2025, as Afghan all-rounder Karim Janat made his debut for the Gujarat Titans. This marked a significant moment, making Janat the tenth Afghan player to feature in the prestigious tournament. However, his first match against the Rajasthan Royals was a baptism by fire.
A Tough Debut Against Suryavanshi's Onslaught
Janat's IPL debut against Rajasthan Royals was far from smooth sailing. Facing Rajasthan’s 14-year-old sensation, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Janat conceded a brutal 30 runs in a single over – a stark reminder of the IPL's high-octane nature and the challenges faced by even experienced players. Suryavanshi’s sixes and boundaries left Janat visibly shaken, making for a tough start to his IPL career.
Family Legacy and Rising Star
Despite the challenging debut, Janat's journey is one of remarkable resilience and talent. Born in Kabul, Afghanistan on August 11, 1998, he's the younger brother of former Afghanistan captain Asghar Afghan, showcasing a strong family cricketing heritage. His impressive T20 stats – 42 wickets in 67 matches at an economy rate of 8.19 and 691 runs – earned him a â‚ą75 lakh contract at the IPL 2025 mega auction. His powerful hitting and ability to bowl at 140 km/h are promising signs for his future in the IPL.
A Look Ahead
While his first outing was undeniably tough, Janat's talent and family legacy suggest a bright future. His performance will be closely watched as he adapts to the demands of the IPL. The Gujarat Titans will certainly hope he can overcome this initial setback and contribute significantly to their season. His experience in other T20 leagues, including the Bangladesh Premier League and Lanka Premier League, will hopefully help him adapt and learn from this initial challenge. His presence in the IPL is also a testament to the growing impact of Afghan cricket on the global stage.
