Ezekiel Emmanuel Chittem: In Indian cricket, thousands of young players dream of making it to the next level, but only a handful manage to separate themselves from the crowd. For Hyderabad-based fast-bowling all-rounder Ezekiel Emmanuel Chittem, that dream has taken a significant step forward after earning a place among the shortlisted players for the TG20 Telangana T20 League 2026.
The achievement is particularly noteworthy considering the scale of competition. More than 5,000 cricketers registered for the TG20 Telangana T20 League trials, while over 1,300 players from the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) system entered the selection process. After multiple stages of evaluation, selectors narrowed the list to just 160 players, and Ezekiel was among those chosen.
For a 19-year-old cricketer still building his career, the selection represents recognition of years of hard work, discipline, and consistent performances across various competitive tournaments.
Building a Reputation as a Fast-Bowling All-Rounder
Ezekiel has steadily developed into a dependable right-arm fast-bowling all-rounder capable of contributing in all departments of the game. With bowling speeds touching around 130 kmph, he has built a reputation for maintaining pressure on opposition batters while also providing valuable contributions with the bat.
His cricketing journey has seen him represent several competitive teams, including Rohit XI, Megacity XI, Loyola Academy College Team, and Vepery Cricket Club in Tamil Nadu. Over the years, he has gained valuable experience across Hyderabad and Chennai cricket circuits, facing quality opposition and refining his game.
One of his standout seasons came during the TNCA Fifth Division League, where he emerged as the second-highest wicket-taker for Vepery Cricket Club and played a key role in helping the team climb from 10th place to 5th in the standings.
Performances That Turn Heads
Statistics often tell the story behind a player’s progress, and Ezekiel’s numbers reflect a bowler capable of making an impact.
His career-best spell of 4 wickets for 17 runs in 7 overs demonstrated his ability to dominate opposition batting line-ups. During the 2023-24 season, he picked up 15 wickets while maintaining an impressive economy rate of 4.3 and a dot-ball percentage exceeding 71 percent. Ezekiel Emmanuel Chittem.
Such performances highlight a bowler who combines control, discipline, and wicket-taking ability—qualities highly valued in modern T20 cricket.
Recognition Beyond the Scoreboard
Throughout his cricketing journey, Ezekiel has collected several Player of the Match awards and has earned appreciation from experienced figures within the cricketing community.
Training opportunities alongside former India international Hanuma Vihari and praise from respected cricket personalities have further reinforced the belief that the young all-rounder possesses the potential to compete at higher levels.
His commitment to fitness, leadership qualities, and willingness to continuously improve have also contributed to his development both on and off the field.
TG20 Selection: A Major Milestone
Being shortlisted for the TG20 Telangana T20 League 2026 is arguably the biggest milestone of Ezekiel’s career so far.
The league has emerged as an important platform for talented cricketers seeking opportunities to showcase their abilities in front of selectors, coaches, and franchise scouts. Earning a place among the final 160 players from a pool of thousands is a testament to the consistency and promise he has displayed over recent seasons.
While the journey is far from over, the TG20 selection places Ezekiel among some of Telangana’s most promising young cricketers and provides him with a valuable opportunity to take another step toward professional cricket.
Eyes on the Future
At just 19 years of age, Ezekiel Emmanuel Chittem still has plenty of cricket ahead of him. However, his progression through competitive domestic cricket and recent TG20 recognition suggest that he is moving in the right direction.
With determination, continued hard work, and the right opportunities, the Hyderabad fast-bowling all-rounder could soon become a name to watch in Telangana cricket and beyond.
The TG20 shortlist may be only the beginning, but it is undoubtedly a significant chapter in what is shaping up to be a promising cricketing journey.
Also Read: https://sports19.in/balachandra-prasad-chess-international-master-story/
