Rajesh Banik, a dedicated Indian cricketer from Agartala, passed away in 2025 after a distinguished domestic career. He is remembered for his contributions both as a player and mentor in Tripura cricket.
Born on December 12, 1984, in Agartala, Rajesh Banik was widely recognized for his relentless commitment and lifelong passion for cricket. He began as a player before transitioning into mentoring and selecting talent, leaving a lasting impact on the sport. His life came to a tragic end in a road accident on October 31, 2025, in Anandanagar, West Tripura, which deeply saddened the Indian domestic cricket community. His early prominence came when he represented India’s Under-15 team in 2000. Playing alongside future cricket stars such as Irfan Pathan and Ambati Rayudu, he participated in the ACC Under-15 Trophy held in Kuala Lumpur. He also toured England the same year. Banik made his first-class debut for Tripura during the 2001–02 Ranji Trophy season. Over his career, he played 42 first-class matches, accumulating 1,469 runs at an average of 19.32. His batting included six half-centuries and a top score of 93. His last first-class appearance was against Odisha in Cuttack in November 2018. Following his retirement from professional play, Banik continued contributing to cricket by serving as a selector for Tripura’s Under-16 team. In this role, he worked closely with young athletes, helping nurture emerging talent. His unexpected passing has created a significant gap within the Tripura cricket community. The Tripura Cricket Association (TCA) honored him with heartfelt tributes, acknowledging him as one of the state’s finest all-rounders and a keen talent spotter. Rajesh Dhrubalal Banik was a gifted Indian cricketer from Agartala, Tripura, who competed for his home state in domestic cricket. Born on December 12, 1984, he was a right-handed batsman and an occasional right-arm leg-break bowler. He made his first-class debut during the 2001–02 season for Tripura. Tragically, Banik died in a road accident on October 31, 2025, at the age of 40. Rajesh Banik stood out as a gifted Indian cricketer from Agartala who played domestic cricket for Tripura. All images included are for editorial use only. Rights reserved with Getty/Source.