Cricketing legend beyond the crease

Mulvantrai Himmatlal “Vinoo” Mankad, born on April 12, 1917, in Jamnagar, Gujarat, remains one of India’s greatest cricketing legends. Known for his exceptional all-round abilities, Mankad’s contributions to Indian cricket transcend mere statistics, leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s history.

Mankad’s career spanned a transformative era for Indian cricket, from colonial rule to post-Independence glory. In 44 Tests, between 1946 and 1959, he amassed 2,109 runs at an average of 31.47 and claimed 162 wickets at 32.31. His versatility was unparalleled — he batted in every position and was equally adept with bat and ball.

One of his most iconic performances came at Lord’s in 1952. Facing England, Mankad scored a heroic 72 and 184 while bowling an exhausting 97 overs. Though India lost, his all-round brilliance earned him a rare spot on both the batting and bowling Honours Boards at Lord’s. That same year, he spearheaded India’s first-ever Test victory against England in Chennai with match-winning figures of 8/55 and 4/53.

Mankad’s partnership with Pankaj Roy also made history. Their record-breaking 413-run opening stand against New Zealand in 1956 stood unbroken for 52 years. In the same match, Mankad scored a monumental 231, showcasing his ability to dominate with the bat.

Beyond his achievements, Mankad’s name became synonymous with a controversial, yet legal dismissal-running out a non-striker backing up too far-popularly known as “Mankading”. While this overshadowed aspects of his legacy, it also underscored his sharp cricketing acumen.

Mankad’s first-class career was equally illustrious, boasting over 11,000 runs and nearly 800 wickets. His adaptability and selflessness made him a cornerstone of Indian cricket during its formative years.

Though he passed away in 1978, Mankad’s legacy endures through his records and influence on future generations. His contributions were recognised when he was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in January 2021.

Mankad was more than a cricketer; he was a pioneer who laid the foundation for India’s rise in international cricket. His story is one of resilience, brilliance, and an unyielding love for the game.

Yathesht Pratiraj Phool

Features