Cricket India – Vinoo Mankad (1917-1978)

Cricket India – Vinoo Mankad (1917-1978)

Cricket, a sport that captivates millions, has seen the rise of extraordinary players who have etched their names into the annals of history. Among these legends, Vinoo Mankad stands tall as one of India’s greatest all-rounders, whose contributions to the game have left an indelible legacy. The Department of Post honors this cricketing icon with a commemorative stamp, celebrating his remarkable achievements.

Vinoo Mankad

Mulvantrai Himmatrai Mankad, affectionately known as “Vinoo,” was born in 1917 and became one of India’s most revered cricketers. His prowess as an all-rounder—both as a batsman and a bowler—made him a pivotal figure in Indian cricket during his career.

Batting Prowess:

Vinoo Mankad was a right-handed batsman known for his adaptability and skill. Depending on the state of the game, he could shift from watchful defense to aggressive stroke play. His signature shots included the late cut, leg hit, and cover drive, which earned him the bulk of his runs. Over the course of his career, Mankad played 233 first-class matches, amassing a total of 11,591 runs with an average of 24.70. His highest score was a monumental 231 runs, showcasing his ability to play long and decisive innings.

Bowling Mastery:

Mankad was equally formidable with the ball. As a left-arm orthodox slow bowler, his slightly round-arm action generated significant spin, making him a constant threat to opposing batsmen. His control over flight and length was nearly flawless, allowing him to dominate with both accuracy and variation. Mankad’s quick bowling action—completing an over in just over a minute—left little time for batsmen to recover between deliveries. Throughout his career, he took 782 wickets, cementing his status as a world-class bowler.

Historic Partnerships and Honors:

One of Vinoo Mankad’s most celebrated achievements was his record-breaking first-wicket partnership with Pankaj Roy. Together, they scored 431 runs in a Test match, a record that stood for decades. Mankad’s contributions to cricket were widely recognized, earning him the title of Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1947. His excellence and dedication to the sport were further acknowledged when he was awarded life membership of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in 1967, a prestigious honor in the cricketing world.

Leadership and Legacy:

Mankad’s cricketing acumen extended beyond his playing abilities; he also served as the captain of the Indian Test cricket team during the 1954-55 tour of Pakistan. His leadership and strategic thinking on the field were instrumental in guiding India through this challenging series.

Vinoo Mankad passed away in 1978, but his legacy endures. The commemorative stamp issued by the Department of Post is a fitting tribute to this legendary cricketer, whose contributions to Indian cricket continue to inspire generations of players and fans alike.