Why Sanjay Bangar Never Got a Long Run in Team India

Despite a prolific domestic career, Sanjay Bangar struggled to cement a place in the Indian side. His first‑class résumé – 8,349 runs, 13 centuries, 49 fifties and 300 wickets – positioned him as a genuine all‑rounder. Nevertheless, fierce competition for middle‑order slots in the early 2000s limited his opportunities.

Bangar made his Test debut against England in 2001 and played a total of 12 matches, scoring 470 runs with a lone hundred. In ODIs he featured in just 15 games, scoring 180 runs. The brief international exposure, combined with modest batting returns, meant selectors turned to other options.

The experience, however, proved valuable when Bangar moved into coaching. Appointed batting coach in 2014, he contributed to India’s historic Test series win in Australia, a two‑year stretch at the top of the ICC Test rankings, and consistent success in limited‑overs cricket. His story highlights how a limited playing window can evolve into a distinguished coaching career.