Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif who turned 39 on Sunday was poured in with birthday wishes from his team mates and fans from all over the world. Notable among the many international cricketers who extended their wishes to Kaif  were his Uttar Pradesh state and national team mate Suresh Raina and  Indian batting great Virender Sehwag.

Kaif considered one of the best fielders in cricket history is remembered for his sheer athleticism on the field. Along with Yuvraj Singh, he played a pivotal role in raising the standards of fielding in the Indian team.

He rose to prominence after leading the India U-19 team to victory in the ICC U-19 World Cup in 2000, which opened the doors for him to stake a place =into the senior national squad. Kaif established himself a handy middle order in the limited overs arena, who won many a games for India under the captaincy of Sourav Ganguly.




His knock of 87* (in 75 deliveries) against England in the final of the NatWest series is widely regarded as one of the most memorable innings in Indian cricket history. He saw off India's run-chase of 326 in the match, which earned him the Man of the Match award.

Kaif made his Test debut for India in 2000 against South Africa, and donned the jersey for the Men in Blue two years later in January, against England. The right-handed batsman represented India in 13 Tests and 125 ODIs.

He was a seasoned campaigner for his state team Uttar Pradesh and famously led Uttar Pradesh to Ranji Trophy final in 2006.

Kaif also holds the record for most catches in a World Cup game (4, against South Africa in the 2003 World Cup). The global tournament in 2003 is Kaif's only appearance at the World Cup for India.