Allrounder Jakati calls it a day

Panaji: It was nine years ago when a Goan bowler made his presence felt at the Indian Premier League (IPL). Even today, Goa cricket lovers fondly remember how Shadab Jakati, the left-arm orthodox spinner, foxed legendary Sachin Tendulkar in the 2010 IPL final, paving the way for Chennai Super Kings’ maiden triumph against Mumbai Indians.
Jakati is the only bowler from the state who made it to the IPL and played nine years in the lucrative Twenty20 league.
Jakati’s 21-year long career came to an end on Friday when the 39-year-old allrounder announced his retirement.
“It was on my mind from last few weeks. I spoke to my family and friends and took the decision. I am grateful to Goa Cricket Association and BCCI for giving me an opportunity to serve my state and other tournaments for so long,” he told TOI.
Jakati played in 92 first-class games, taking 275 wickets — the most by any Goan bowler. His best came when he took eight wickets as Goa shocked mighty Andhra Pradesh by 34 runs. He also displayed his skills by scoring a century against Tripura in Margao.
He also featured in 82 one-days and 91 T20 matches for Goa.
But it was IPL where he made his mark. He made his presence felt with a four-wicket haul against Delhi Daredevils (Delhi Captials now) in South Africa. Though CSK didn’t win the title, it was the next year where he was anintegral part of the team’s triumph.
“I am really happy with such a long career and it feels surreal that I made my debut against Karnataka in 1998-99 and to be the most successful bowler for Goa is something special,” he said.
The Vasco resident has been involved in cricket coaching activities since then. When asked if he would continue to play an active role in cricket, he said, “Whatever I am today is because of cricket. I would always be associated with cricket with coaching. It would be nice to give something back to the game which has given me so much.”
Speaking on current scenario in Goa, Jakati said he was pleased with the GCA’s efforts to spread the game at grassroots level. “It is heartening to know that GCA has involved former players at ground level coaching and started U-14 Inter-School President’s Cup so more and more players can come through. Such initiative will help Goa players go a long way,” he said.
Jakati last played for Goa against Punjab in 2017 and it was special as he had a five-wicket haul that day.