What it means to be the King Khan of Indian cricket

India's pace spearhead, Zaheer Khan, turns 33 on Friday and while he may be out of the national team, his contribution to India's bowling has been immense.

Wish Zaheer Khan on his 33rd birthday

The left-handed pace bowler who made his ODI debut against Kenya in October of 2000 has matured as a player over the course of his career.

Wish Zaheer Khan on his 33rd birthday

Zaheer shot into limelight when he dismissed Australian skipper Steve Waugh in the Champions Trophy in the year 2000.

Wish Zaheer Khan on his 33rd birthday

Prior to Zaheer Khan, India had struggled to find their lead pace bowler with Ashish Nehra and several other promising youngsters failing to make a consistent impact.

Wish Zaheer Khan on his 33rd birthday

Zaheer has been widely known to be a canny bowler; one who does not try to get a wicket of every ball but instead uses each one to set the batsman up for a wicket-taking delivery.

Wish Zaheer Khan on his 33rd birthday

Zaheer Khan has been one of the few Indian bowlers who have managed to pull-off swing with the new ball and use the older one to produce reverse swing.

Wish Zaheer Khan on his 33rd birthday

Despite not being express in pace, Zaheer's ability to bring the ball back sharply made him seem quicker than most batsmen anticipated, a reason for his rocketing success.

Wish Zaheer Khan on his 33rd birthday

Zaheer Khan also put up some stubborn performances with the bat. His innings of 75 runs which contributed to a record tenth wicket partnership of 133 runs with Sachin Tendulkar being the highlight of his Test career.

Wish Zaheer Khan on his 33rd birthday

Zaheer's injuries however have proved to be the hindrance to his success. The hamstring problem, which has been troubling him in recent times has been a cause of worry since the 2003-04 season.

Wish Zaheer Khan on his 33rd birthday

Already the second most successful Indian pacer, Zaheer's menacing impact has served as an influence for all Indian fast bowlers.

Wish Zaheer Khan on his 33rd birthday

Zaheer was the joint leading wicket-taker in the 2011 World Cup and was a big part of the successful campaign.

Wish Zaheer Khan on his 33rd birthday

In 2011, Zaheer also received the Arjuna award for his contribution to Indian sports.

Wish Zaheer Khan on his 33rd birthday

Speculations regarding the relationship of the speedster with Isha Sharvani have made the headlines ever since the two met in the year 2005. Reports regarding a possible engagement had come up earlier this year.

Wish Zaheer Khan on his 33rd birthday