Rajesh Dhupar

Rajesh Dhuper is a talented batter who keeps wicket and bowls leg-spin playing for Odisha in Indian domestic cricket. He has played 74 matches across the three formats since his Odisha debut.

Recommended by former Test batter, and legendary English club professional, Wasim Jaffer, Dhuper has been a stand-out for his State since his debut in 2015.

After a slow start to his senior career, the gloveman really hit his straps with the bat during his prolific 2017/18 season. He was named Odisha’s cricketer of the year courtesy of his Ranji Trophy (275 runs at 68.75), and Vijay Hazare Trophy (164 runs at 54.66) performances.

Whilst he didn’t back up his success the following season, he returned to form in 2019/20 in Ranji cricket, scoring his maiden first-class century (110*) against Maharashtra (Feb 2020) amongst 233 runs at 29.12.

Unfortunately, Ranji Trophy was canceled due to COVID in 2020/21 but resumed in fine fashion with knocks of 71* and 52 (v Goa), and 51 and 14 (v Saurashtra) to average 42.20 in 2022. Last summer (2022/23) he continued to shine with a further half-century en route to a Ranji season average of 34.

The talented Odisha all-rounder spent the 2022 season playing his maiden UK stint for Ilminster in the West of England Premier League. After another slow start, Dhuper hit his straps with the bat hitting 746 runs at 39.26, and evidenced his all-round ability by taking 27 wickets at 24.48 with a combination of spin and medium pace.

Dhuper is now set for a return in 2023 having signed with St Peters for their Sussex League campaign.