Anil Dalpat – Former Wicketkeeper of Pakistan Cricket Team | Biography, Age, Stats & Career

When you look at the history of Pakistan cricket, the name Anil Dalpat stands out for many reasons. Not only was he a skilled wicketkeeper and batsman, but he also holds the distinction of being one of the few Hindu cricketers to play for Pakistan at the international level. In this article, we examine his early life, career trajectory, match statistics, and life after retirement.

Who Is Anil Dalpat?

Anil Dalpat Sonavaria, well known as Anil Dalpat, is a former Pakistani cricketer. He was born into a Pakistani Hindu family and made history as the first Hindu to play international cricket for Pakistan in the modern world.

Key Facts About Anil Dalpat:

Detail	Information
Full Name	Anil Dalpat Sonavaria
Nationality	Pakistani
Religion	Hindu
Birth Place	Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
Date of Birth	September 20, 1963
Anil Dalpat's Age (as of 2025)	61 years
Batting Style	Right-handed
Role in Team	Wicketkeeper-batsman

Anil Dalpat Stats – Test & ODI Career

Although his international career was short, Anil Dalpat played crucial matches during the early 1980s. He was mainly known for his work behind the stumps as a wicketkeeper.

Test Match Stats

Matches Played: 9
Runs Scored: 167
Batting Average: 16.69
Top Score: 52
Catches/Stumpings: 19/2

ODI Match Stats

Matches Played: 15
Runs Scored: 142
Batting Average: 14.20
Top Score: 39
Catches/Stumpings: 14/3

Interesting fun Fact: His highest score of 52 came against England in 1984–85, showing his ability to perform under pressure.

Career Journey of Anil Dalpat

1. Early Days

Anil Dalpat was born in Karachi and belonged to the Dalpat Sonavaria family, which was already involved in cricket. He grew up playing domestic cricket and impressed selectors with his wicketkeeping skills.

2. National Selection

He made his debut for Pakistan in 1984 when Wasim Bari, the then-regular wicketkeeper, was unavailable. Despite playing in a competitive era, Anil made his mark in a short span.

3. Competition and Decline

After Bari's return and later the emergence of Saleem Yousuf, Anil lost his place in the team. But during his brief international career, he gained respect for his solid keeping and humble personality.

Anil Dalpat PSL – Did He Play?

While Anil Dalpat did not play in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), the tournament started in 2016, long after his retirement, he remains a respected name in Pakistan cricket.

However, his legacy is often remembered when discussing topics like:

Top 10 Hindu cricketers in PSL history (although he didn’t play in the PSL, his faith makes him part of broader discussions).
Hindu representation in Pakistani sports.

Anil Dalpat and His Family Legacy

Interestingly, Anil Dalpat is the cousin of Danish Kaneria, the famous Pakistani leg-spinner and the only Hindu to have played over 60 Tests for Pakistan. Both have faced similar struggles due to their minority status in the country.

Anil Dalpat's Wife and Personal Life

Anil Dalpat has kept his personal life private. There is little public information available about his wife or family, as he has always focused more on cricket and post-retirement community work.

Anil Dalpat Now – Where Is He?

After retirement, Anil Dalpat moved abroad for a while but has stayed connected to cricket. He is known to have worked in youth coaching and occasionally comments on cricket matters, especially involving minority rights in sports.

He remains an inspiration to young Hindu cricketers in Pakistan.
His career is a reminder of cricket’s unifying power in a divided world.

Top Highlights – Anil Dalpat's Cricket Career

Here’s a glance at his key contributions:

First modern Hindu cricketer in Pakistan.
Represented Pakistan in 9 Test and 15 ODI matches.
Known for sharp wicket-keeping skills.
Scored a Test half-century (52) against England.
Played domestic cricket for Karachi and Habib Bank.
Related to Danish Kaneria, another Hindu Pakistani cricketer.

FAQs About Anil Dalpat

Did Anil Dalpat score any century?

No, Anil Dalpat did not score a century in his international career. His highest Test score was 52.

What is Anil Dalpat’s birthplace?

He was born in Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan.

What is Anil Dalpat’s religion?

Anil Dalpat follows Hinduism, and he is one of the few Hindu cricketers in Pakistan's national team history.

How old is Anil Dalpat now?

As of 2025, Anil Dalpat is 61 years old.

Conclusion

Anil Dalpat may not have had a long international career, but his contribution to Pakistan cricket is significant. As a pioneer for religious minorities, his legacy goes beyond runs and catches. He opened doors for others, such as Danish Kaneria, and remains a symbol of hope and determination.

In a country where cricket is more than just a game, Anil Dalpat’s story is one of quiet courage and silent impact.