Former Indian cricketer and one of the greatest opening batsmen is Sunil Gavaskar. Known for his sharp technique and unmatched mental strength, Sunil has changed the face of Indian Cricket in 1970s and 1980s. But beyond the public records and historic milestones, there are several unknowing and surprising facts about the Little Master that many fans may not be aware of.
Early Life and Background
Sunil Manohar Gavaskar was born on July 10, 1949, in Mumbai, Maharastra. From a young age, he demonstrated remarkable cricketing talent and was a standout in school and college cricket. Educated at St. Xavier’s College, he was inspired by the sport and quickly made his mark in the domestic circuit.
Historic Debut
Gavaskar played off his Test debut in 1971 during India’s tour of the West Indies, a team known for its fearsome pace attack. In just his first series, he stunned the world by scoring 774 runs, helping India win their first-ever series in the Caribbean. This remarkable performance was just the beginning of illustrious career.
Record Breaking Career
Throughout his career, Sunil Gavaskar was known for his unmatched concentration and classical batting technique. Here are some of his most iconic achievements.
First batsman in the world to score 10,000 runs in Test cricket.
Gavaskar Scored 34 Test Centuries, a world record at the time.
He played 125 Test matches and 108 ODIs for India.
He retired in 1987, leaving behind a legacy of determination and excellence.
Life After Cricket
After retiring, Gavaskar transitioned into a respected cricket commentator, analyst, and columnist. His sharp insights and deep understanding of the game made his a favourite among fans and experts alike. He has also been involved in cricket administration and continues to play a role in shaping Indian cricket off the field.
Awards and Honors
Sunil Gavaskar’s contributions have recognized through several prestigious awards.
Padma Shri (1975)
Padma Bhusan (1979)
Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1980)
Inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame
Personal Life
Gavaskar is married to Marshneil Gavaskar, and the couple has a son, Rohan Gavaskar, who also played international cricket for India. Despite the fame, Gavaskar is known for leading a humble and disciplined life.
