Rizvi Shines with Vijay Hazare Trophy Ton, Making CSK’s Release Decision Look Questionable

In the recent Vijay Hazare Trophy, 21-year-old Sameer Rizvi delivered a standout performance by scoring his maiden List A century for Uttar Pradesh against Vidarbha. His impressive knock of 105 runs off 82 balls, featuring seven sixes and five fours, was instrumental in Uttar Pradesh’s total of 307 runs.

Rizvi’s journey has been notable. He was part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) squad in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) but was released ahead of the 2025 season. Subsequently, the Delhi Capitals acquired him for ₹95 lakhs in the IPL 2025 auction.

His recent century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy underscores his potential and raises questions about CSK’s decision to release him. As he prepares to join the Delhi Capitals, Rizvi aims to leverage insights gained from his time with CSK and is eager to learn from established players like KL Rahul and Faf du Plessis.

Rizvi’s consistent performances in domestic cricket highlight his readiness for the upcoming IPL season, suggesting that CSK’s decision to release him might have been premature.

Sameer Rizvi’s Stellar Knock Sends a Message to CSK, Boosts DC’s Hopes

In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Rizvi showcased his batting prowess by scoring a century for Uttar Pradesh against Vidarbha. This impressive knock was instrumental in his team’s performance, highlighting his ability to deliver under pressure.

Prior to this, Rizvi had a stellar run in the Men’s Under-23 State A Trophy, where he amassed 728 runs in six innings, boasting an average of 242.67. His innings included two double centuries, one of which was a record-breaking 201* off just 97 balls against Tripura, featuring 13 fours and 20 sixes.

Reflecting on his transition from CSK to DC, Rizvi expressed no disappointment, stating, “I am not disappointed that I won’t be playing for CSK.” He emphasized his focus on contributing to DC’s success and utilizing the platform to further hone his skills.

Given his current form, Rizvi is poised to be a key player for the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025, potentially filling the crucial finisher’s role and adding significant depth to their batting lineup.

Rizvi’s Knock Lights Up the Vijay Hazare Trophy

Sameer Rizvi’s recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular, particularly his maiden List A century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Representing Uttar Pradesh, Rizvi scored a blistering 105 runs off just 82 balls against Vidarbha, propelling his team to a formidable total of 307 runs.

This century is a continuation of Rizvi’s remarkable form. In the Men’s Under-23 State A Trophy, he amassed 728 runs in six innings, averaging an astounding 242.67. His innings included two double centuries, one of which was a record-breaking 201* off just 97 balls against Tripura, featuring 13 fours and 20 sixes.

These performances have not only highlighted Rizvi’s immense talent but have also raised questions about the Chennai Super Kings’ decision to release him ahead of the 2025 IPL season. The Delhi Capitals seized the opportunity, acquiring him for ₹95 lakhs in the IPL 2025 auction.

As Rizvi continues to shine in domestic cricket, the Delhi Capitals will undoubtedly be optimistic about the impact he can make in the upcoming IPL season.

From CSK to DC: A Prolific Journey

Sameer Rizvi’s cricketing journey has been marked by significant milestones and impressive performances. Born on December 6, 2003, in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, he began his cricketing pursuits at the age of eleven under the guidance of his maternal uncle at Gandhibagh Academy. His talent was evident early on, catching the attention of notable cricketers like Suresh Raina during a Ranji Trophy match in 2011.

Rizvi made his first-class debut for Uttar Pradesh on January 27, 2020, in the Ranji Trophy. He continued to develop his skills and made his List A debut on December 11, 2021, in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

His breakthrough came during the 2023 UP T20 League, where he amassed 455 runs in nine innings for the Kanpur Superstars, including two centuries. One of these centuries was the fastest of the tournament, achieved in just 47 deliveries.

In December 2023, Rizvi was acquired by the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for ₹8.4 crore in the IPL auction, making him the most expensive uncapped player that year. He featured in eight matches for CSK during the 2024 IPL season, scoring 51 runs with a highest score of 21.

Following the 2024 season, CSK released Rizvi, and he was subsequently signed by the Delhi Capitals (DC) for ₹95 lakhs in the 2025 IPL auction. His recent performances, including a maiden List A century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, have bolstered DC’s expectations for the upcoming season.

Rizvi’s journey from CSK to DC underscores his resilience and determination to excel at the highest levels of cricket.

Drawing Inspiration from MS Dhoni

Sameer Rizvi has often expressed his deep admiration for former Indian captain MS Dhoni, citing him as both his idol and primary source of inspiration. He has stated, “MS Dhoni is my idol, he’s my inspiration.”

Rizvi’s admiration for Dhoni extends beyond his cricketing skills; he is particularly inspired by Dhoni’s leadership qualities and calm demeanor under pressure. This influence is evident in Rizvi’s own approach to the game, where he strives to emulate Dhoni’s composure and strategic acumen.

During his tenure with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2024 IPL season, Rizvi had the opportunity to interact with Dhoni. He described this experience as a dream come true, emphasizing the significant impact of Dhoni’s mentorship on his development as a cricketer.

rizvi’s journey reflects the profound influence that a role model like MS Dhoni can have on an emerging cricketer, shaping not only his playing style but also his overall approach to the sport.

Sameer Rizvi’s recent performances have significantly bolstered the Delhi Capitals’ (DC) prospects for the upcoming IPL 2025 season. His exceptional form not only underscores his immense potential but also casts doubt on the Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) decision to release him.

Given his current form, Rizvi is poised to be a key player for the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025, potentially filling the crucial finisher’s role and adding significant depth to their batting lineup.

For a visual recap of Rizvi’s record-breaking double century, you can watch the highlights here: