Sunil Gavaskar – Cricketing Career
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Sunil Gavaskar |
| Player Type | Batsman |
| Date of Birth | July 10, 1949 |
| Father’s Name | Manohar Gavaskar |
| Birthplace | Bombay (now Mumbai), India |
| Career Starting Date | March 6, 1971 |
| Retirement Date | March 13, 1987 |
| Matches Played | 125 (Tests) |
| Centuries | 34 (Tests) |
| Half Centuries | 45 (Tests) |
| Ducks | 12 (Tests) |
| Nervous Nineties | 8 (Tests) |
| Wickets | 1 (Tests) |
| Captaincy in Matches | 47 (Tests) |
| Man of the Matches | 9 (Tests) |
Biography:
Sunil Gavaskar, one of India’s legendary cricketers, was born on July 10, 1949, in Bombay (now Mumbai), India, to Manohar Gavaskar. He is often hailed as one of the finest opening batsmen in the history of Test cricket. Gavaskar’s cricketing journey began in 1971 when he made his debut for the Indian cricket team against the West Indies.
Sunil Gavaskar was a technically sound and disciplined batsman who possessed remarkable patience and the ability to play long innings. He was known for his ability to tackle some of the most fearsome fast bowlers of his time with great composure. Gavaskar’s prolific Test career spanned from 1971 to 1987, during which he played 125 Test matches.
In his illustrious Test career, Gavaskar scored 34 centuries and 45 half-centuries, solidifying his reputation as a dependable run-scorer. However, he faced a few challenges with nervousness in the nineties, resulting in 8 instances where he got dismissed in the nineties.
Apart from his batting exploits, Gavaskar bowled part-time off-spin and claimed a single wicket in Test cricket. He also captained the Indian team in 47 Test matches, leading them with distinction.
Throughout his career, Gavaskar’s consistent performances earned him nine “Man of the Match” awards in Test matches.
World Records:
Below are some of the notable world records held by Sunil Gavaskar in Test cricket:
| Category | Records |
|---|---|
| Test Matches | First cricketer to score 10,000 Test runs |
| Overall Test Runs | Scored 10,122 runs in 125 Test matches at an average of 51.12 |
| Most Centuries against West Indies | Scored 13 centuries against the West Indies in Test matches |
| Most Man of the Match Awards | Received 9 “Man of the Match” awards in Test matches |
Brand Endorsements:
Sunil Gavaskar’s contribution to Indian cricket and his stature as a cricketing icon made him a sought-after personality for brand endorsements during his playing days. While brand endorsements during his era were not as extensive as they are today, Gavaskar endorsed products and brands that aligned with his clean and respectable image.
His association with brands added to his popularity both on and off the field, making him a beloved figure among cricket enthusiasts and fans across the country.
Sunil Gavaskar’s remarkable achievements on the cricket field and his contribution to the sport’s popularity in India earned him the title of “Little Master.” Even after retiring from the game, he remained connected to cricket as a commentator and continued to be an influential voice in the cricketing world.