From local circle cricket in Durgapur to high-pressure ISPL matches, Saroj Paramanik’s journey is built on patience, self-belief, and years of hard work. Known across India’s tennis ball cricket circuit as the Prince of Durgapur, Saroj has earned respect through match-winning performances, consistency, and calm under pressure.
This is the full story of his life, career, and rise in professional tennis ball cricket.
Early life & family background
Saroj Paramanik was born on December 14, 1992, in Durgapur, West Bengal. He comes from a modest family. His father ran a barber shop in the early years before joining the police force when Saroj was studying in Class 7 or 8.
Cricket was never an easy choice at home. Financial pressure meant the family was focused on stability rather than sport. Saroj recalls, “Kisko nahi laga tha ke main cricket khel paunga.” Things changed only after his father secured a steady job. That stability allowed Saroj to focus on cricket without worrying about daily survival.
First steps into cricket and early passion
Saroj’s bond with cricket started in childhood. He played circle cricket almost every day in his neighbourhood. Long before coaching setups or formal tournaments, the game became part of his routine.
His biggest influence was Tillu Sharma. Watching Tillu’s game, team strength, and fan following left a deep mark on Saroj. “Mujhe laga ke main bhi unke jaisa banna chahta hoon aur unki team ke liye khelna chahta hoon,” he says
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Education and early struggles
Saroj completed his BA graduation while continuing to play cricket. There were periods when his future in the sport felt unclear. Around 2004, during the chucking controversy era, tennis cricket felt uncertain at many levels.
Family responsibility and doubt from people around him slowed his progress. “Papa ka Police mein naukri hone ke baad hi mujhe thoda space mila,” he explains. That phase became a mental turning point. He decided to give cricket his full focus.
Leather ball cricket and district journey
Saroj played leather ball cricket across the Durgapur subdivision. His steady performances helped his team reach a district final, which later made him eligible under certain job norms.
He appeared for CLW trials and performed well. However, his name did not appear in the final list. That rejection hit hard. After careful thought, Saroj decided to step away from leather ball cricket.
At the same time, he was already playing tennis ball cricket in local tournaments. Gradually, that format became his main path.
Professional tennis cricket begins (2013–14)
Saroj officially entered professional tennis ball cricket around 2013–14. The format gave him regular matches, exposure, and freedom to express his skills.
Over time, he built his name as a reliable all-rounder. His ability with both bat and ball earned trust across local and regional tournaments.
The turning point: Nandani Cup, East Medinipur
The defining moment of Saroj’s career came during the Nandani Cup in East Medinipur.
In a tense semi-final, the opposition needed just 6 runs to win. Saroj bowled a stunning over, conceding only 4 runs and taking 4 wickets. The match turned instantly.
“Uske baad maine kabhi peeche mud kar nahi dekha,” he says.
From that day, his goal was clear. He wanted to become the No.1 all-rounder and build a strong fan base across India.
ISPL and a new stage for tennis cricket
When ISPL was announced, Saroj never expected tennis cricket to receive such a large stage. “Kabhi nahi laga tha ke tennis cricket ko itni badi pehchaan milegi,” he admits.
ISPL selection process
The ISPL pathway was tough and structured.
- Green Ticket rounds
- Golden Ticket rounds
- Simulation matches with fixed targets, such as 24 runs in 12 balls
- Blue Ticket entry into the ISPL auction
Saroj earned entry through the third Blue Ticket, a major moment in his career.
ISPL auction success
Saroj Paramanik was sold for ₹20,60,000 to the Tigers of Kolkata. This confirmed his place among the top names in ISPL tennis cricket.
Also read: ISPL auction: Top 10 buys in ISPL season 3 auction
ISPL career stats
Saroj’s numbers reflect his impact as an all-rounder.
- Matches: 16
- Runs: 218
- Highest score: 30
- Strike rate: 186.32
- Wickets: 15
- Best bowling: 2/13
Awards and national recognition
Saroj’s performances across India brought major awards.
- Man of the Series at Chandrakona, West Bengal
- Man of the Series at Rashtrawadi Chashak, Maharashtra, won a car
- Man of the Series at Rajnandini Cup, won a bike
Overall, he has won:
- 15 Man of the Series awards with bikes
- 3 Man of the Series awards with cars
He has played tournaments across India and in Dubai, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sharjah, and other Gulf regions.
Match-winning moments that built his name
Saroj is known for delivering under pressure.
With the ball, he regularly picks up 2 to 3 wickets, even on small Bengal grounds.
One unforgettable batting effort came when his team needed 59 runs in just 3 overs. Saroj hit 6 sixes in 6 balls and turned the match completely.
Major leagues and tournaments played
- ISPL
- 10PL Tennis Cricket League, Sharjah
- Red Tiger Cup, Champion and Man of the Series
- Rajnandini Cup 2025, Man of the Series
- Jammu and Kashmir Street Premier League, Man of the Series
- Delhi Super Series, Man of the Series, where he earned the title Prince of Durgapur
- West Bengal Tennis Cricket League
- Dream League of India
- India Cup, National Tennis Ball Cricket League
- The Legenz T10
- Lam Trophy, Bhopal
- 30th Year Ghatsila Basuki Singh Memorial Trophy, Runner-up
A constant source of strength
Saroj often credits his wife as his strongest support. During tough days, long travel schedules, and pressure-filled matches, she stood by him quietly.
Her belief gave him confidence during low phases. Saroj says her support has played a major role in everything he has achieved.
Growing Fan Following Across Platforms
Saroj Pramanik has built a strong and loyal fan base across digital platforms, reflecting his growing impact beyond the ground.
He is followed by 56,000+ fans on Facebook, 27,000+ followers on Instagram, and 1850+ followers on CricHeroes, where his performances and stats are closely tracked by cricket lovers.
Playing style and strengths
Saroj Paramanik is a complete all-rounder.
- Batting strength: Powerful hitting over long-off and long-on
- Bowling strength: A unique backhand, slower ball
This delivery troubled top batters, especially during matches in Mumbai, and brought him wide attention.
His ability to adjust and perform under pressure defines his game.
Life beyond cricket
Cricket brought Saroj stability and independence. While he does not share yearly earnings, he says, “Main apne profession se well settled hoon.”
Through cricket, he has:
- Built his own house
- Bought a flat and land
- Started SP Sports, a cricket equipment store
Career numbers on the CricHeroes App
- Matches: 332
- Runs: 5,283
- Wickets: 328
You can follow his full match history and stats on his CricHeroes player profile:
👉 Saroj Paramanik CricHeroes Profile
What Saroj says about CricHeroes
The performances I deliver on the ground are showcased on CricHeroes in a way that feels on par with international players. Every match and every performance is recorded automatically. My journey is no longer just a memory; it is clearly visible in one place, and that gives real value to a player. This is very important for me.
The journey continues
From circle cricket grounds in Durgapur to international tennis cricket leagues, Saroj Paramanik’s journey is shaped by patience, belief, and effort. The Prince of Durgapur continues to inspire young players who start with nothing but a bat, a ball, and a dream.
FAQs
Who is Saroj Paramanik?
Saroj Paramanik is a professional tennis ball cricket all-rounder from Durgapur, West Bengal.
Why is Saroj Paramanik called the Prince of Durgapur?
He earned the title after dominant performances in major leagues, including the Delhi Super Series.
Which team bought Saroj Paramanik in ISPL?
He was bought by the Tigers of Kolkata for ₹20,60,000.
What is Saroj Paramanik’s bowling strength?
His backhand slower ball is his key wicket-taking option.
How many matches has Saroj played on CricHeroes?
He has played 332 matches with over 5,000 runs and 300 wickets.
When and where was Saroj Paramanik born?
He was born on December 14, 1992, in Durgapur, West Bengal.
What type of cricketer is Saroj Paramanik?
He is a complete all-rounder who contributes with both power hitting and wicket-taking bowling.
What was the turning point in Saroj Paramanik’s career?
His four-wicket over in the Nandani Cup semi-final in East Medinipur changed his career path.
How did Saroj Paramanik enter the ISPL auction?
He entered through the Blue Ticket after clearing Green Ticket, Golden Ticket, and the simulation matches.
What are Saroj Paramanik’s ISPL stats?
He played 16 matches, scored 218 runs, took 15 wickets, and had a strike rate of 186.32.
How many Man of the Series awards has Saroj Paramanik won?
He has won 15 Man of the Series awards, earning bikes and cars.
Has Saroj Paramanik played international tournaments?
Yes, he has played in Dubai, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sharjah, and other Gulf countries.
I am Manan Joshi , SEO All-Rounder at CricHeroes.
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