UCLA Cricket Hall of Fame 2022-'23: Celebrating Excellence

The 2022-'23 cricket season at UCLA witnessed some breathtaking performances, unforgettable moments, and remarkable achievements. As the season drew to a close, it was time to honor and immortalize the exceptional talents that graced the cricket field and contributed to the sport's growth at our university.

Best Batsman: Trinabh Sahni
A name that needs no introduction in UCLA cricket circles, Trinabh Sahni exhibited his mastery with the willow throughout the season. His elegant strokeplay, impeccable timing, and an insatiable appetite for runs set him apart from the rest. Trinabh's consistent performances, including some crucial match-winning knocks, rightfully earned him the title of the Best Batsman of the season.

Best Bowler: Kulveer Setya
The spearhead of UCLA's bowling attack, Kulveer Setya, wreaked havoc on opposition batting line-ups. Armed with a deadly combination of flight and spin, Kulveer troubled batsmen throughout the season. His ability to pick up crucial wickets at crucial junctures earned him the honor of being the Best Bowler of the year.

Most Improved: Abhinav Madabhushi
Cricket is a sport that rewards hard work and dedication, and Abhinav Madabhushi's journey exemplified just that. With relentless effort and commitment, Abhinav showcased vast improvements in his game, becoming a key player for the team. His perseverance and progress made him a deserving recipient of the Most Improved player award.

MVP: Trinabh Sahni - A Trailblazer of Excellence
In every team, there emerges a star whose brilliance shines through, igniting the path to victory. Trinabh Sahni, a cricketing virtuoso, proved to be the cornerstone of the UCLA cricket team's triumphs in the 2022-'23 season. Not only did he dominate with the bat, but he also ignited his teammates' spirits through his exceptional leadership and unwavering sportsmanship. His crowning as the season's Most Valuable Player was not just an accolade but a testament to his unparalleled contributions.

Trinabh's batting prowess was a force to be reckoned with, consistently amassing runs with finesse and flair. His artistry with the bat was matched only by his ability to lead by example, motivating his fellow players to reach their full potential. Beyond his masterful batting displays, Trinabh proved his mettle in another facet of the game. As the team's second-highest wicket-taker, his valuable contributions in the bowling department showcased his versatility and all-round prowess.

It is often said that true leaders not only shine individually but also elevate the entire team. Trinabh's impact went beyond statistics; his presence in the dressing room, his strategic insights, and his unwavering commitment made him the beating heart of the team. As the Most Valuable Player, Trinabh Sahni's legacy resonates as a true trailblazer of excellence, a role model for aspiring cricketers, and an embodiment of the spirit that fuels the success of UCLA cricket.

Catch of the Year: Trinabh's One-Handed Stunner at UCI
Sometimes, a moment of brilliance on the field can change the course of a match. Trinabh Sahni's gravity-defying one-handed catch at the boundary during the clash against UCI was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the season. It left fans and players alike in awe and deservedly won the Catch of the Year award.

Best Batting Innings:

Adit's 173 (78) against ASU: Adit's batting masterclass against Arizona State University (ASU) was a breathtaking display of power-hitting and finesse. Walking in at a crucial juncture when UCLA was under pressure, Adit played with composure and aggression, demolishing the opposition bowlers to all corners of the ground. His innings featured an array of scintillating strokes, including thunderous sixes and exquisite cover drives.

Adit's 173-run knock came off just 78 deliveries, leaving everyone in awe of his sheer dominance. His ability to read the game, find gaps in the field, and execute his shots with precision made it a memorable innings for all cricket enthusiasts. The partnership he built with his fellow batsmen laid the foundation for a monumental total, propelling UCLA to a resounding victory against ASU.

Best Batting Innings: 

Achyutha's 66 (26) against Rutgers: Another exceptional batting display that etched itself in the memory of UCLA cricket fans was Achyutha's explosive innings against Rutgers. Coming in at a time when quick runs were needed, Achyutha wasted no time in unleashing a barrage of attacking strokes. His fearless approach and clean ball-striking left the Rutgers bowlers hapless.

In just 26 deliveries, Achyutha notched up an impressive 66 runs, including a flurry of boundaries and towering sixes. His aggressive intent put immense pressure on the opposition, setting the stage for a daunting target. His innings showcased the true essence of T20 cricket, where batsmanship meets entertainment, and the crowd was treated to an unforgettable spectacle.

Abhigya's 3-0-15-4: 

Abhigya's bowling heroics against an opponent showcased his ability to make a significant impact in a short span of time. In just three overs, he delivered a match-defining performance, claiming four crucial wickets while conceding only 15 runs. His spell was a textbook example of disciplined bowling, accuracy, and the ability to exploit the conditions.

Abhigya's deceptive variations and impeccable line and length made it difficult for the batsmen to settle in. He consistently troubled the opposition's top order, dismantling their batting lineup and leaving them reeling. His crucial breakthroughs at key moments played a vital role in restricting the opposition to a modest total, setting up a comfortable victory for UCLA.

Team Spirit: Tamim - Spreading Joy, Enlightening Commentary, and Motivating Beyond Bounds

In the realm of cricket, some individuals possess an extraordinary ability to transcend the traditional roles of players. Tamim, a beacon of positivity in the 2022-'23 season, exemplified this unique spirit within the UCLA cricket team. Renowned for his jovial nature, Tamim's infectious laughter and lighthearted banter spread joy amongst his teammates, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and togetherness. Off the field, he became the life of the team, lifting spirits with his wit and charm.

But Tamim's influence extended far beyond humor. With his enlightening commentary and deep understanding of the game, he offered valuable insights to his teammates, helping them hone their skills and make strategic decisions on the field. His ability to analyze the game with precision and share his knowledge made him a cherished mentor to many.

What truly set Tamim apart was his unwavering commitment to the sport, even in the face of personal challenges. Despite observing fasting during certain matches, he never let it dampen his dedication to play. Instead, his unyielding determination and positive attitude became a source of inspiration for the entire team. His motivational speeches before crucial encounters infused a sense of belief and resilience, motivating his fellow players to push their boundaries and strive for excellence.

Tamim's unique blend of spreading joy, enlightening commentary, and delivering motivating speeches made him an invaluable asset to the UCLA cricket team, proving that cricket is not just about individual skills but about the spirit of unity and passion for the game.

Team Spirit: Ronen - Spreading Joy and Camaraderie

 Ronen, a shining star of the 2022-'23 season, was that guiding light for the UCLA cricket team. His infectious enthusiasm and positive demeanor infused a sense of camaraderie among his teammates, forging strong bonds that transcended the boundaries of the game. Whether it was a challenging match or a routine practice session, Ronen's presence could light up the atmosphere and motivate everyone around him. His dedication to the team's success and unwavering support for his fellow players made him an invaluable asset and an embodiment of true team spirit.

The UCLA Cricket Hall of Fame for the 2022-'23 season celebrates these outstanding players and their contributions to the sport we all love. Their performances have set new benchmarks and inspired future generations of cricketing talents at UCLA. As we look forward to the next season, we take pride in these exceptional athletes who have made their mark in the cricketing history of our university. Congratulations to all the awardees and here's to many more glorious seasons of cricket at UCLA!