Vinoo Mankad, Indian cricketer (d. 1978)

Mulvantrai Himmatlal "Vinoo" Mankad, an iconic name in the annals of Indian cricket, was a legendary all-rounder whose career spanned from 1946 to 1959. Born on 12 April 1917, he left an indelible mark on the sport, not only through his exceptional skills as both a left-arm orthodox spinner and a right-handed opening batsman but also through incidents that etched his name into cricket's lexicon. He sadly passed away on 21 August 1978, but his legacy continues to inspire generations of cricketers and fans.

A Distinguished Career on the Pitch

During his illustrious career, Vinoo Mankad proudly represented India in 44 Test matches, showcasing a rare blend of batting prowess and bowling artistry. He was much more than just a player; he was a pivotal figure in India's early post-independence cricketing journey, contributing significantly with both bat and ball to the team's performances on the global stage.

The World Record Opening Partnership

One of Mankad's most celebrated achievements came in 1956 when he forged a monumental opening partnership of 413 runs with his fellow Indian batsman, Pankaj Roy. This remarkable feat, achieved against New Zealand in Chennai (then Madras), stood as a world record for the first wicket in Test cricket for an astonishing 52 years, a testament to their exceptional teamwork, endurance, and skill. It was a partnership that showcased the depth of Indian batting talent and remains a cherished memory in the nation's cricketing history.

The 'Mankading' Legacy: A Point of Debate and Principle

Beyond his statistical achievements, Vinoo Mankad is perhaps most widely remembered, and sometimes controversially so, for an incident that bears his name: "Mankading." This refers to the unique dismissal of running out a non-striker who leaves their crease prematurely before the bowler has delivered the ball. The most famous instance involving Mankad occurred during India's tour of Australia in 1947. After warning Australian batsman Bill Brown for backing up too far, Mankad eventually ran him out in the second Test, having previously dismissed him in a similar fashion in a warm-up match.

This act, while perfectly legal under the Laws of Cricket, sparked considerable debate about the "spirit of the game" versus the "letter of the law." Mankad himself always maintained that he had given fair warning to the batsman, upholding the principle that players should not gain an unfair advantage. Despite the ongoing discussion, the dismissal has remained a legitimate part of cricket, and the term "Mankading" became a colloquialism for this specific mode of run-out. It highlights a fundamental tension in cricket between adhering strictly to the rules and upholding perceived gentlemanly conduct. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has since moved to formally reclassify this dismissal simply as a "run out (non-striker)," removing any implied negativity and reaffirming its status as a valid mode of dismissal.

Posthumous Honour: ICC Cricket Hall of Fame

In a fitting tribute to his immense contributions and enduring impact on the sport, Vinoo Mankad was posthumously inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in June 2021. This prestigious recognition cemented his place among the greatest cricketers of all time, acknowledging his all-round brilliance and the significant legacy he bequeathed to the game, both on and off the field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Vinoo Mankad best known for in cricket?
Vinoo Mankad is renowned for two primary reasons: his world record opening partnership of 413 runs with Pankaj Roy in 1956, which stood for 52 years, and for the unique dismissal method known as "Mankading," where a bowler runs out a non-striker who leaves their crease early before the ball is bowled.
When was Vinoo Mankad inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame?
Vinoo Mankad was posthumously inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in June 2021, recognizing his significant contributions to the sport.
What is "Mankading" in cricket?
"Mankading" refers to the act of a bowler running out the non-striker batsman who has left their crease before the ball has been delivered. It is a legal form of dismissal under the Laws of Cricket, though it has historically generated debate.
Is "Mankading" still legal in cricket?
Yes, "Mankading" has always been a legal form of dismissal. The ICC has recently clarified its classification, moving it from "unfair play" to "run out" in the laws, explicitly confirming its legitimacy as a method of getting a batsman out.
How long did Vinoo Mankad's world record opening partnership stand?
Vinoo Mankad's world record opening partnership of 413 runs with Pankaj Roy stood for an impressive 52 years before it was eventually surpassed.