CK Nayudu: India’s first ever Test Captain

The year 1932 marked a historic moment for Indian cricket as the nation made its debut at Lord’s, the iconic cricket ground in London. This significant achievement was made possible by the remarkable contributions of Cottari Kankaiya Nayudu, fondly known as CK Nayudu. Not only was he the first captain of the Indian cricket team, but he also laid the foundation for India’s entry onto the international stage.

CK Nayudu: India’s first ever Test Captain

Born on October 31, 1895, in Nagpur, CK Nayudu’s journey in cricket began during his school years when he played for Hislop Collegiate High School and later for the Modi Club, eventually becoming its captain. Despite his involvement in athletics, hockey, and football, where he achieved distinction at the association level, Nayudu developed a deep interest in cricket. In 1916, he represented the Hindus team, formed by the Hindu Gymkhana, against the Europeans, marking his early foray into the sport.

Nayudu’s talent and prowess in cricket continued to flourish. He played for Central Provinces in 1919 and Madras in 1920 before being invited by the ruler of Holkar to Indore. In Indore, Nayudu served as a Captain (land and air) in the ruler’s army and was later bestowed with the title of Colonel. These experiences and accolades further solidified Nayudu’s reputation as a prominent figure in the cricketing world.

However, the most defining moment of CK Nayudu’s cricket career came during the tour of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in December 1926. Led by Arthur Gillian, the MCC arrived in India with an unbeaten record of 12 matches played in Karachi, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Ajmer. In a match at the Bombay Gymkhana, the MCC posted a formidable first-innings score of 363.

The Hindus team, with Nayudu in their ranks, began their innings at 67/2 on the second day. It was at this juncture that Nayudu emerged as a game-changer, altering the course of the match with his extraordinary batting skills. In a remarkable display of power and precision, he scored a breathtaking 153 runs in just 116 minutes. This incredible innings not only helped the Hindus team regain control of the match but also left a lasting impact on the spectators and the cricketing fraternity.

CK Nayudu’s outstanding performance against the formidable MCC team catapulted him to national and international acclaim. His remarkable innings showcased his ability to dominate top-class bowling attacks and established him as a force to be reckoned with in the world of cricket. This match served as a stepping stone for India’s cricketing journey and laid the foundation for future successes.

Beyond his achievements on the cricket field, CK Nayudu’s legacy extends to his contributions as a mentor and leader. As the first captain of the Indian cricket team, he played a pivotal role in shaping the team’s ethos and instilling a sense of national pride. His dedication and commitment to the sport set a precedent for generations of Indian cricketers to follow.

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In conclusion, CK Nayudu’s indelible mark on Indian cricket is immeasurable. His journey from humble beginnings in Nagpur to leading the Indian cricket team at Lord’s represents a tale of determination, skill, and unwavering passion. His extraordinary innings against the MCC team in 1926 served as a catalyst for India’s cricketing aspirations. Nayudu’s legacy as a trailblazer continues to inspire and his contributions will forever be etched in the annals of Indian cricketing history.

CK Nayudu had a brief international cricket career, participating in only seven Test matches. He reached his highest score of 81 in his final Test at Kennington Oval when he was 40 years old. In 1934, Nayudu took charge of the Indian team and led them in the first four matches, encountering three defeats and managing a draw at Eden Gardens. However, it wasn’t until 1952 that India achieved their inaugural victory in international cricket.

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Apart from his stint at Lord’s, Nayudu also captained India in a three-match Test series during England’s tour of India in 1933/34. Throughout his career, Nayudu played in 207 matches, amassing a total of 11,825 runs at an average of 35.94. He recorded an impressive tally of 26 centuries and 58 fifties, with a highest score of 200. Nayudu also proved his bowling prowess by taking 411 wickets at an average of 29.28. His impressive bowling figures included 12 five-fers and two ten-wicket hauls, with a best bowling performance of 7/44.

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