Indian · Mumbai, India · Born 10 July 1949Indian cricket legend and opening batsman who became the first player to score 10,000 Test runs and held the record for most Test centuries.
Sunil Manohar Gavaskar was born in Mumbai, India in 1949. He is the first batsman in cricket history to score 10,000 Test runs. He scored 34 Test centuries — the world record when he retired. He played his entire career against the formidable West Indies pace quartet, making his achievement of averaging over 51 exceptional. His debut Test series against the West Indies produced 774 runs in 4 Tests — the highest aggregate for a debut series in history. He batted without a helmet throughout his career. He was the most celebrated Indian cricketer before Sachin Tendulkar and the person who established batting as the primary currency of Indian cricket.
He became the first batsman in cricket history to score 10,000 runs in Test matches, reaching the milestone in 1987.
How They Played
Gavaskar was renowned for his impeccable technique, particularly his ability to play fast bowling with confidence and skill. He possessed exceptional patience and concentration, often batting for hours to build substantial innings. His compact batting style, strong defensive foundation, and ability to score runs against the world's best fast bowlers made him one of the most dependable opening batsmen in cricket history.
Lasting Impact
Gavaskar revolutionized opening batting in Test cricket and paved the way for future generations of Indian batsmen to succeed on the international stage. He remains one of cricket's greatest opening batsmen and helped establish India's credibility in Test cricket during a golden era.
Career Honours
- 10,000 Test runs (first ever)
- 34 Test centuries (record when retired)
- World Cup 1983 (squad)
| Club | Period | Matches | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | 1966–1987 | 218 | 25834 |
| Somerset | 1980–1981 | 5 | 412 |
Indian Athletes