2018-04-13 Fri

Cricket, a game that has the heady magic of an addiction for sportsmen who have become legends in their lifetime and beyond! Today we talk about the one of such legendary cricketer, Vinoo Mankad.

Mulvantrai Himmatlal Mankad, also known as Vinoo Mankad, was born on 12 April 1917 at Jamnagar. He was one of the greatest all-rounders in the history of Indian cricket.

There is no other Indian cricketer who has set as many long enduring test records as him. Vinoo Mankad was part of the highest first wicket partnership. Scored the fastest 1000 runs and got the fastest 100 wickets.

Mankad, who represented India in 44 Tests, averaged 31.47 with the bat. He also scored 5 centuries and 6 fifties during the course of his Test career. Being a slow left-arm orthodox bowler, Mankad twice took 8-wickets in an innings. He ended his Test career with 162 wickets, striking at a rate of 90.6 balls per wicket.

The BCCI commemorated Vinoo Mankad's contribution to Indian cricket, naming the domestic Under-19 One-day tournament as the Vinoo Mankad Trophy.

Department of post issued a 200 Paisa (2 Rupees) postage stamp in 1996 to pay a tribute to this legendary cricketer who gave the game its early impetus and set the trend which was to be followed by equally brilliant successors on the pitch.

Image Courtesy: Mintage World