New Delhi, September 3: Kiren More is a former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman known for his agile and sharp wicketkeeping skills. However, two significant events have brought him more attention than his cricketing career alone.
Born on September 4, 1962, in Baroda, More made his first-class debut for the team during the 1980-81 season. Following impressive performances in domestic cricket, he made his international debut in December 1984. By 1986, he earned a spot in the Test team, where he made history by taking 16 catches in his very first Test series.
More was not only famous for his wicketkeeping but also for his ability to unsettle opposing batsmen with his remarks from behind the stumps.
One of the most talked-about incidents in cricket history occurred on March 4, 1992, during the World Cup match between India and Pakistan. More’s relentless appeals from behind the wickets infuriated Pakistani batsman Javed Miandad, who famously reacted by jumping on the pitch. This moment continues to circulate on social media.
While More was not as impactful as a batsman, he played several crucial innings lower down the order. Over 49 Tests, he scored 1,285 runs at an average of 25.70, including seven half-centuries. As a wicketkeeper, he took 110 catches and made 20 stumpings. In One Day Internationals, he amassed 563 runs in 94 matches, with 63 catches and 27 stumpings to his name.
Awarded the Arjuna Award in 1993, More transitioned to coaching and commentary after retiring that same year. From 2002 to 2006, he served as the chairman of the BCCI selection committee. During his tenure, he provided opportunities to young cricketers while dropping senior players, including the highly successful Sourav Ganguly. This decision sparked considerable controversy, as Ganguly struggled to return to the Indian team after being dropped.
The incidents involving Miandad and Ganguly keep More in the limelight even today. He remains actively involved in domestic cricket in various roles across different organizations.
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