Abdul Samad is a 24‑year‑old Indian cricketer from Jammu & Kashmir, currently playing for Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL. He is known for his explosive batting, particularly as a middle‑order finisher, and is only the fourth player from J&K to feature in the IPL.
Personal & Background
- Full Name: Abdul Samad Farooq
- Born: 28 October 2001, Kalakote, Jammu & Kashmir, India
- Height: 183 cm (6 ft)
- Batting Style: Right‑handed
- Bowling Style: Right‑arm leg break
- Role: Batter (finisher)
- Domestic Team: Jammu & Kashmir
- IPL Teams: Sunrisers Hyderabad (2020–2024), Lucknow Super Giants (2025–present)
Career Highlights
- IPL Debut: 29 September 2020 vs Delhi Capitals.
- Explosive Start: Strike rate of 170+ in debut IPL season with SRH.
- Ranji Trophy: Scored back‑to‑back centuries in debut season; leading run‑scorer for J&K in 2025–26, averaging 57.53 and helping them win their maiden Ranji Trophy title.
- Recent IPL Form (2026): Scored 37* vs Punjab Kings in May 2026, showing glimpses of his finishing ability.
Abdul Samad Statistics
| Format | Matches | Runs | Avg | Strike Rate | 100s/50s | Top Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First‑Class | 39 | 2,358 | 44.49 | 86.12 | 7/11 | 128 |
| List A | 32 | 784 | 25.29 | 118.07 | 1/6 | 112 |
| T20s | 118 | 1,882 | 24.76 | 146.91 | 0/5 | 76* |
| IPL | 71 | 857 | 19.47 | 148.78 | 0/0 | 45 |
Style & Strengths
- Batting: Big‑hitting ability, especially against pace.
- Role: Used primarily as a finisher in IPL.
- Temperament: Calm under pressure, thrives in short bursts.
- Bowling: Occasional leg‑spin, though rarely used in IPL.
Legacy & Outlook
Abdul Samad represents the growing cricketing talent from Jammu & Kashmir. Despite inconsistency in the IPL, his domestic record shows he has the temperament and skill to succeed at higher levels. At 24, he is entering a crucial phase where sustained performances in the IPL and Ranji Trophy could elevate him into national contention. His journey is already inspirational for young cricketers from J&K, proving that raw talent from smaller regions can make it to the biggest stage.
Conclusion:
Abdul Samad’s journey from Jammu & Kashmir to the IPL stage is both inspirational and promising. His fearless batting style and ability to clear boundaries have made him a valuable finisher, even if consistency remains a challenge. His domestic heroics, particularly leading J&K to their maiden Ranji Trophy triumph, underline his potential to be more than just a power‑hitter. At 24, Samad is entering a crucial phase where sustained IPL performances with Lucknow Super Giants could elevate him into national reckoning. His legacy will be remembered not only for his explosive stroke‑play but also for being a trailblazer from J&K, inspiring young cricketers from the region to dream big.
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