Akshay Wakhare

Akshay Wakhare is a name synonymous with excellence in Indian domestic cricket. A towering off-spinner and a true servant of Vidarbha cricket, Wakhare recently bowed out of the Ranji Trophy in style—helping his beloved side to a third title, and retiring as Vidarbha’s second-highest wicket-taker in Ranji history with 344 scalps at 28.42, including 21 five-wicket hauls.

Across all formats, the seasoned campaigner racked up 460 wickets since making his first-class debut back in November 2006 (not 2016), becoming one of the most consistent and respected bowlers in India’s domestic setup over nearly two decades.

A regular among the top wicket-takers in Ranji Trophy seasons, Wakhare's class and control made him a go-to weapon for Vidarbha. Despite his performances, national selection eluded him, although he was once picked by the Mumbai Indians in the IPL—yet, surprisingly, never featured in a match.

Often labeled as a specialist bowler, Wakhare is also a handy lower-middle-order batter, with three first-class fifties and a highest score of 72 to his name—offering vital depth in any batting line-up.

In 2022, he briefly ventured to the UK, playing for Wigan CC in the Liverpool Competition. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury curtailed his stint after just 8 games, in which he still claimed 19 wickets at 18.63—a testament to his quality even when not at full fitness.

Having retired from domestic cricket, Wakhare is eager to return to the UK in 2026 to finish what he started. He brings not only elite-level spin bowling and valuable lower-order runs, but also coaching experience and immense professionalism. Widely respected as one of the nicest blokes on the domestic circuit, he would be a massive asset to any club—on and off the field, especially given his excellent availability now he's not State contracted.

A high-class operator. Highly recommended.