Farhaan Behardien

Farhaan Behardien, a name synonymous with South African cricket, has carved a niche for himself in the annals of the sport with his remarkable skills and commendable performances. Born on October 9, 1983, in Johannesburg, Behardien emerged as a prominent figure in cricket, known for his aggressive batting, competent bowling, and exceptional fielding. Making his international debut for South Africa in 2012, he quickly became a mainstay in the limited-overs formats of the game. This article delves into the life and career of Farhaan Behardien, exploring his journey from the domestic circuits to the international arena, his playing style, achievements, personal life, and his eventual retirement from international cricket in 2022. Behardien’s story is not just one of athletic prowess but also of personal resilience and the importance of support systems in the life of a sportsman​​​​.

Batting Career Summary

Bowling Career Summary

Career Information

ODI debut vs New Zealand at Diamond Oval, Jan 22, 2013

Last ODI vs India at SuperSport Park, Feb 16, 2018

T20 debut vs India at The Wanderers Stadium, Mar 30, 2012

Last T20 vs Australia at Carrara Oval, Nov 17, 2018

IPL debut vs Royal Challengers Bangalore at Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium, May 09, 2016

Last IPL vs Rising Pune Supergiant at Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, May 21, 2016

Farhaan Behardien: A Comprehensive Biography

Farhaan Behardien, born on October 9, 1983, in Johannesburg, South Africa, is a retired South African cricketer renowned for his skills in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). Behardien did not play any international test match in his career, but his contributions in limited-overs cricket were significant.

Behardien’s cricket journey began with domestic cricket, where he made his first-class and List-A debuts in the 2004-05 season for the Nashua Titans. His remarkable skills were not limited to the national scene; in 2009, he was part of the South African squad that won the Hong Kong Sixes tournament. His crucial six in the final ball led the team to victory against Hong Kong. This period also saw him playing as an overseas player for Bovey Tracey, where he additionally served as a coach for their under-13 side.

He made his T20I debut for South Africa against India in early 2012, showcasing his talent by scoring an unbeaten 20 off 11 deliveries. This performance helped him secure a place in the South African squad for the 2012 ICC World Twenty20. His ODI debut came a bit later, in 2013 against New Zealand. Behardien’s ODI career was highlighted by a crucial half-century against the United Arab Emirates during the 50-over World Cup, reflecting his potential as a middle-order batsman.

Throughout his career, Behardien was known for his consistent performance and nerveless finishing, especially for the Titans. This consistency earned him the recognition of South Africa’s domestic Twenty20 player of the year in 2017. Beyond his playing career, Behardien has been an asset to the teams he has represented, including his tenure as captain of the South Africa team for the T20I series against Sri Lanka in January 2017.

After a career spanning 18 years and participating in 560 professional games across all formats, including 97 caps for South Africa, Behardien announced his retirement from international cricket in December 2022. He expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from his family, friends, coaches, teammates, and fans. His retirement marks the end of an illustrious career that included appearances in four World Cups and 17 trophies in his cabinet.

Behardien’s cricket legacy is not just limited to his performance on the field. His background, being born to Pakistani parents, and his Muslim faith, along with players like Hashim Amla and Imran Tahir, have contributed to the diverse fabric of South African cricket. His journey from playing in the amateur teams to becoming a professional cricketer with the Titans, under the observation of coaches like Gary Kirsten and Richard Pybus, showcases his dedication and growth in the sport​​​​​​​​.

Tracing the Career of Farhaan Behardien: Milestones and Achievements

Farhaan Behardien’s cricket career, marked by both domestic and international achievements, began with his debut in first-class and List-A cricket in the 2004–05 season for the Nashua Titans. A significant highlight early in his career was his participation in the 2009 Hong Kong Sixes tournament, where he played a pivotal role in South Africa’s victory, hitting a six off the final ball in the final against Hong Kong.

Behardien’s international career took off in early 2012 when he made his T20I debut for South Africa against India, quickly making an impact with a score of 20* from just 11 deliveries. This performance secured him a place in the South African squad for the 2012 ICC World Twenty20. He later joined the South African ODI squad in 2014 and played a notable innings of 65*. Over his ODI career, which spanned from 2013 to 2018, Behardien played 59 matches, scoring 1074 runs with a highest score of 70 and an average of 30.69.

In T20Is, Behardien played 38 matches, scoring 518 runs with a highest score of 64 and an average of 32.37. His T20 career overall included 204 matches, scoring 3719 runs with a highest score of 72 and an average of 35.75. As a bowler, he took 14 wickets in ODIs and 3 in T20Is, with best bowling figures of 3/19 in ODIs.

In addition to his international appearances, Behardien continued to be a vital player in domestic cricket. He was named in the Titans’ squad for the 2018–19 season and later represented teams like the Cape Town Blitz in the Mzansi Super League T20 tournament and the Nelson Mandela Bay Giants. His domestic career also saw him reaching the milestone of 6000 runs in first-class cricket while playing for the Titans in the 2018–19 CSA 4-Day Franchise Series.

Behardien’s career, characterized by his consistent performance and finishing skills, earned him the T20 Challenge Player of the Season award at Cricket South Africa’s annual awards in May 2017. However, in December 2022, Behardien announced his retirement from international cricket, concluding a distinguished 18-year career in the sport. Throughout his career, Behardien remained an influential figure in South African cricket, contributing significantly both on and off the field.

Farhaan Behardien’s Journey in the IPL: A Detailed Look

Farhaan Behardien’s career in the Indian Premier League (IPL) was a part of his broader cricketing journey, which saw him achieve various milestones in both domestic and international cricket. Although specific details about his IPL career are not extensively documented, his overall T20 career statistics give an insight into the skills he might have brought to the IPL.

Behardien, known for his prowess in limited-overs cricket, particularly excelled in the T20 format. His T20 career spanned over 200 matches, in which he scored 3719 runs with a highest score of 72, maintaining an average of 35.75. His batting was characterized by a striking rate of 131.13, showcasing his ability to score quickly - a crucial skill in T20 cricket. Although primarily recognized for his batting, Behardien also had a presence with the ball in T20 cricket, taking a total of 5 wickets.

His international T20 career with South Africa, where he played 38 matches and scored 518 runs at an average of 32.37 and a striking rate of 128.21, likely contributed to his value in the IPL. These statistics reflect Behardien’s competence as a T20 player, capable of contributing significantly in high-paced, competitive environments like the IPL.

Throughout his career, Behardien was recognized for his consistent performances and ability to handle pressure, which are key attributes for any player in the high-intensity environment of the IPL. His skills in finishing games and his flexibility in batting at different positions would have been valuable assets to his IPL team.

Behardien’s experience in various T20 leagues around the world, combined with his international experience, would have made him a seasoned player in the IPL, bringing a blend of experience, skill, and reliability to his team​​​​.

The Playing Style of Farhaan Behardien: Characteristics and Skills

Farhaan Behardien, a former South African international cricketer, was known for his aggressive and versatile playing style. As a right-handed batsman, Behardien brought an assertive approach to the crease, often taking charge in pressure situations. This aggressive batting style was evident in his performances across various formats of the game.

In One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), Behardien’s ability to score quickly and efficiently was a hallmark of his play. In ODIs, he had a batting average of around 30.68 and in T20Is, his average was approximately 32.37. His highest scores in these formats were 70 and 64* respectively, showcasing his ability to contribute significant runs.

Behardien’s skills extended beyond batting. He was also a useful bowler, delivering right-arm medium-fast balls. While not primarily known for his bowling, he provided a reliable option for his team, capable of breaking partnerships and providing crucial overs. In ODIs, he took 14 wickets with a best figure of 3/19, and in T20Is, he took 3 wickets with a best figure of 2/15.

Apart from his batting and bowling, Behardien was recognized for his athletic fielding, often contributing to his team’s defensive efforts with agility and sharp reflexes.

Overall, Farhaan Behardien’s playing style was marked by his aggressive batting, competent bowling, and dynamic fielding, making him a valuable all-round cricketer during his career. His ability to perform under pressure and contribute in various aspects of the game made him a noteworthy player for South Africa and in the domestic teams he represented.

Farhaan Behardien’s Personal Life: A Focus on His Wife

Farhaan Behardien, the notable South African cricketer, has had a personal life that is as interesting as his professional one. He is married to Cindy Behardien. The couple tied the knot in 2013 and have since been a strong support system for each other. Cindy has played a significant role in Behardien’s life, offering him the necessary encouragement and backing throughout his cricketing career. Her constant presence and support have been pivotal in his journey both on and off the cricket field.

This relationship underscores the importance of a stable personal life and the role it can play in the success of professional athletes. Cindy’s role in Behardien’s life is an example of how having a supportive partner can positively impact an athlete’s performance and overall well-being​​.

As of 2024, Behardien has also been in a relationship with Camilla Baynham, who is a skilled food stylist. Camilla, in her mid-30s, has had a successful career in the industry, working on various projects across the globe. This includes producing stunning stills for editorial and publishing companies, TV commercials, and styling food for packaging and feature films. Camilla’s culinary career began at Tante Marie Cookery School in Surrey, England. The couple’s relationship has been public, with Behardien sharing moments of their time together on social media​​.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Farhaan Behardien’s cricketing journey is a testament to his dedication, skill, and versatility on the field. From his early days in domestic cricket with the Nashua Titans to his memorable performances for the South African national team, Behardien has left an indelible mark on the sport. His aggressive batting style, useful bowling, and dynamic fielding have made him a valuable all-rounder in various formats of the game.

Behardien’s achievements, including his role in South Africa’s victory at the Hong Kong Sixes tournament and his contributions in the T20 and ODI formats, showcase his capability as a cricketer. His tenure as a T20I captain for the Sri Lanka tour and his performances in the IPL further highlight his cricketing prowess.

Off the field, Behardien’s personal life, especially his marriage to Cindy Behardien and his relationship with Camilla Baynham, reflects the importance of a strong support system for professional athletes. His retirement in 2022 marked the end of an 18-year-long illustrious career, leaving behind a legacy of sportsmanship, resilience, and excellence. Farhaan Behardien remains a celebrated figure in South African cricket, admired for his contribution to the game and the grace with which he carried himself both on and off the field​​​​.