Former Indian cricketer and renowned cricket commentator Sanjay Manjrekar celebrates his 56th birthday on July 12. Born on July 12, 1965, in Mangalore, Karnataka, Manjrekar has made significant contributions to the game of cricket both as a player and as a commentator.

Manjrekar was born into a family deeply rooted in cricket. His father, Vijay Manjrekar, was a former Indian cricketer and a prominent figure in Indian cricket during the 1950s and 1960s. Sanjay Manjrekar inherited his father's passion for the game and went on to make a name for himself in the cricketing world.

As a cricketer, Manjrekar represented the Indian national team from 1987 to 1996. He was a right-handed batsman known for his solid technique and the ability to anchor the innings. Manjrekar played 37 Test matches for India, scoring 2,043 runs at an average of 37.14, including four centuries and eight half-centuries. In One Day Internationals (ODIs), he played 74 matches and accumulated 1,994 runs with an average of 33.23.

Some of Manjrekar's memorable innings came against the formidable West Indian pace attack, where he showcased his skills against the likes of Curtly Ambrose, Courtney Walsh, and Malcolm Marshall. His century against the West Indies in Barbados in 1989 remains one of his most memorable performances.

Following his retirement from international cricket, Manjrekar took up a career in cricket commentary and analysis. His insights and in-depth knowledge of the game made him a popular and respected commentator. He has been a part of various cricket broadcasting teams and has provided commentary for major tournaments, including the ICC Cricket World Cup.

However, Manjrekar's career as a commentator has not been without controversy. His candid and straightforward approach to analysis has led to heated discussions and disagreements with players, fellow commentators, and fans. Despite the occasional controversies, his expertise and passion for the game have earned him a loyal fan base.

Apart from his commentary duties, Manjrekar has also dabbled in writing. He has authored the book "Imperfect" which chronicles his experiences and reflections on the game of cricket.

As Sanjay Manjrekar celebrates his 56th birthday, the cricketing fraternity and fans around the world extend their warm wishes to the former cricketer and iconic commentator. His contributions to the sport, both as a player and a commentator, have left a lasting impact, and his insights continue to enrich the experience of cricket lovers globally.

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