I'd never heard of him before. Probably would never have heard of him.

Except that I clicked on Cricinfo's "New site walk-through" link at the top of their main page.

In the top-right corner of their screenshot for the new page, there's a box for "Hot Searches".

And who's the hottest searched item? Why, none other than Imran Tahir of course! Beating out that mere mortal Sachin! ;)

Whether Imran Tahir was just a test search for an obscure player, or the next phenom, or a part of Cricinfo staff, I don't know. But if you want to find out all about him, click here.

For the lazy ones who won't click the link, here's his career summary (and pic, couldn't resist!):

Imran Tahir is the epitome of a journeyman cricketer. In fact, he has barely stopped moving. Since starting his first-class career in 1996-97 he has racked up at least 10 teams ranging from Lahore to Yorkshire via the Titans in South Africa. That he has never remained anywhere for very long suggests a cricketer who has failed to live up to his potential, but his first-class record is impressive with a fine average and imposing strike-rate. His one-day figures stand up to scrutiny as well. He has had stints with three English counties; Middlesex, Yorkshire and Hampshire, who he signed for in 2008.

Interesting career? Sure. A hot search? You decide!