Cricket India – C. K. Nayudu (1895-1967)
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Cricketers |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | March 13, 1996 |
| Denomination | Rs. 2 |
| Quantity | 1000000 |
| Perforation | comb 14¼ x 14 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1495 Stamp Number IN 1552 Yvert et Tellier IN 1275 Stanley Gibbons IN 1654 |
| Themes | Cricket | Famous people | Men | Sports | |
Table of Contents
Cricket India
Cricket, with its captivating allure, has become more than just a game—it is a passion that has inspired countless sportsmen to become legends, celebrated in their lifetimes and beyond. The Department of Post has issued a set of four stamps paying tribute to cricket and some of India’s legendary cricketers who laid the foundation for the game’s early success in the country.
Col. C.K. Nayudu
Colonel C.K. Nayudu (1895-1967) stands as a towering figure in the history of Indian cricket. He was India’s first captain in Test cricket and one of the finest all-rounders of his time. A right-handed batsman known for his hard-hitting style, Nayudu was adept at driving on both sides of the wicket. He was also a proficient slow-medium change bowler with controlled spin, making him a formidable opponent on the field.
Career Highlights:
- Cricket Career: Spanned from 1916 to 1964, showcasing his enduring skill and passion for the game.
- Matches Played: Participated in 207 matches, including 7 Test matches.
- Batting: Accumulated a total of 11,852 runs with an average of 33.94, with his highest score being 200 runs.
- Bowling: Took 411 wickets, demonstrating his versatility as a player.
- Fielding: Secured 171 catches and even managed 1 stumping.
Nayudu’s contributions to Indian cricket extended beyond the pitch. He played his last first-class match at the age of 69, becoming an elder statesman of the sport. He later served as a Test selector and Vice President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), helping shape the future of Indian cricket.
In recognition of his immense contribution to the development of sports in India, Colonel C.K. Nayudu was honored with the Padma Bhushan by the Government of India in 1955, becoming the first Indian cricketer to receive this prestigious award.
Legacy:
The BCCI has instituted the Col. C.K. Nayudu Trophy for cricketers under 22 years of age as a tribute to his lasting impact on the sport. Established in the 1974-75 season, this trophy continues to inspire young cricketers to follow in his illustrious footsteps.
The stamp issued by the Department of Post serves as a reminder of Col. C.K. Nayudu’s invaluable contributions to Indian cricket, celebrating a man whose legacy continues to inspire generations of cricketers.