India’s top pacer Jasprit Bumrah hit back at former cricketer Mohammad Kaif after Kaif criticized his bowling strategy in the Asia Cup 2025. The
Mohammad Kaif
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Mohammad Kaif – India’s Fielding Pioneer and 2002 Hero
Mohammad Kaif will forever be remembered as the man who redefined fielding in Indian cricket and led one of the most iconic run-chases in Indian ODI history. Known for his athleticism, calm temperament, and gritty middle-order batting, Kaif was a crucial part of India’s early 2000s resurgence under Sourav Ganguly.
This tag page on The Cricket Scores dives into everything about Mohammad Kaif—his international career, key performances, fielding brilliance, domestic impact, and life beyond cricket.
Early Life and Rise Through the Ranks
Born on December 1, 1980, in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, Mohammad Kaif made headlines in junior cricket as the captain of India’s U-19 team that won the 2000 U-19 World Cup. His maturity, technique, and leadership stood out, paving the way for his senior India debut in 2002.
International Cricket Career
ODI Cricket
- Debut: January 28, 2002 vs England
- Matches: 125 ODIs
- Runs: 2,753
- Batting Average: 32.01
- 50s: 17 | 100s: 2
- Known for guiding India to victory in the 2002 NatWest Series Final at Lord’s with a career-defining 87*
- Played a key role in India’s 2003 ICC World Cup campaign, reaching the final
Test Cricket
- Debut: March 2000 vs South Africa
- Matches: 13 Tests
- Runs: 624
- Batting Average: 32.84
- 50s: 3
- Played some gritty knocks but never cemented a long-term Test spot due to competition in the middle order
Fielding Revolution
Kaif, along with Yuvraj Singh, transformed India’s fielding standards.
- Often fielded in the inner ring, known for diving stops and direct hits
- One of the quickest and most agile fielders of his generation
- Considered a benchmark for modern Indian fielders
His sharp reflexes saved countless runs and inspired a generation of Indian cricketers to value fitness and fielding.
Domestic and IPL Career
- Represented Uttar Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy for over a decade
- Played in the IPL for Rajasthan Royals, Kings XI Punjab, and Royal Challengers Bangalore
- Scored over 10,000 first-class runs in domestic cricket
- Captained Uttar Pradesh and played key mentoring roles for younger players
Career Stats Snapshot
| Format | Matches | Runs | Avg | 100s | 50s | Catches |
| Tests | 13 | 624 | 32.84 | 0 | 3 | 14 |
| ODIs | 125 | 2,753 | 32.01 | 2 | 17 | 55 |
Life After Cricket
Coaching & Commentary
- Served as fielding coach for IPL teams including Delhi Capitals
- Regularly appears as a Hindi and English cricket analyst on Star Sports and other platforms
- Known for his sharp insights, professionalism, and continued emphasis on fielding culture
Political Career
- Joined Indian National Congress in 2014
- Contested Lok Sabha elections from Phulpur, UP
- Though not elected, he remained active in youth and sports-related outreach
Mohammad Kaif in the News
Stay tuned to this tag page for:
- Match anniversary features (e.g., NatWest 2002)
- Fielding masterclass clips and insights
- Commentary highlights and analysis
- Social media quotes and cricket debates
- Mentoring updates in IPL and domestic cricket
Why Mohammad Kaif Still Matters
Kaif may not have had the longest international career, but his impact was deep and lasting.
- He laid the foundation for modern Indian fielding
- His 2002 Lord’s innings remains one of the greatest ODI chases in Indian history
- As a coach and commentator, he continues to shape how fans and players think about the game
His commitment, grace under pressure, and never-say-die attitude made him a fan favorite—and a name that still sparks respect.