Kirti Azad
Visiting Coach
Right-hand aggressive batsman and medium-quick off-spinner Kirti Azad started his cricketing career at the age of 10 with Gurcharan Sir at the Delhi National Stadium. He got himself included in the Indian team for the 1980-81 tour of Australia and New Zealand and made his Test debut in Wellington. He played three Tests against England during 1981–82 and was then picked for the inaugural 1983 World Cup. In the semifinal against England, Azad was the matchwinner as he managed to contain the middle order with his off-breaks at pace and bowled out the run-machine Ian Botham.
Back on home soil, he scored a filigree, swashbuckling innings at Feroz Shah Kotla, which propelled India to a win over Pakistan in one of the country's first day-night matches.
A maverick in many ways, Azad remained a cornerstone of Delhi’s domestic cricket for years. In 95 Ranji Trophy appearances, he scored 4867 runs at an impressive average of 47.72 and claimed 162 wickets at 28.91. His career-best innings was a commanding 215 against Himachal Pradesh in the 1985–86 season.
Kirti, a four time Member of Parliament remains busy in his public life, but find time to visit his coach at the Academy, and freely shares his vast experience and knowledge with young cricketers and fellow coaches alike, always inspiring and motivating all whom he comes across.
