Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, Indian cricketer and coach (d. 2011)

Nawab Mohammad Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, widely celebrated as 'Tiger Pataudi', remains an indelible figure in the annals of Indian cricket. Born on 5 January 1941, and passing away on 22 September 2011, he was not only a distinguished Indian cricketer but also a highly influential former captain of the Indian cricket team. His iconic nickname, 'Tiger', was a testament to his commanding presence and often aggressive, agile style of play, whether batting or fielding.

A Landmark Captaincy and Enduring Legacy

Pataudi’s leadership journey began remarkably early; he was appointed India's cricket captain at the tender age of 21 in 1962, making him the youngest captain in Indian Test cricket history at the time. Despite suffering a severe eye injury just before his Test debut, which significantly impaired his vision in one eye, he defied all odds to lead his country with exceptional vision and tactical acumen. He is widely described as "one of India's greatest" cricketing minds, credited with instilling a newfound aggression and professionalism in the Indian team, particularly during their nascent years in international cricket. His strategic insights and calm demeanor under pressure transformed the team's approach to the game, laying foundations for future successes.

The World's Best Fielder

Beyond his astute captaincy and elegant batting, Pataudi's fielding prowess was legendary. He was famously lauded as the "best fielder in the world" of his time by eminent voices such as the celebrated cricket commentator John Arlott and his contemporary, former England captain Ted Dexter. His athleticism, lightning-quick reflexes, and powerful throwing arm set new benchmarks for fielding standards globally, revolutionizing how the game was played and perceived in the field. His ability to cover vast ground and execute crucial run-outs made him a standout performer in an era where fielding was often considered secondary.

Princely Roots and Constitutional Changes

Mansoor Ali Khan hailed from a distinguished lineage as the son of Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi, who was the last ruling Nawab of the princely state of Pataudi during the British Raj. Uniquely, his father was also a distinguished Test cricketer, having played for both England and India, making them the only father-son duo to represent two different countries in Test cricket – a testament to their remarkable sporting and royal heritage. Following his father's demise in 1952, Mansoor Ali Khan succeeded him in a ceremonial capacity, inheriting the use of the title "Nawab of Pataudi" along with a 'privy purse' – a fixed, tax-free annual payment from the Indian government – and certain exclusive privileges. These were part of the agreements made when the numerous princely states were absorbed into independent India following the nation's independence in 1947, acknowledging their historical status and facilitating their integration.

However, this system of hereditary titles and associated financial benefits was ultimately ended in 1971. This significant change was brought about by the landmark 26th Amendment to the Constitution of India, a legislative act championed by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, aimed at fostering greater social and economic equality by abolishing all privy purses and privileges of former Indian rulers. This marked the official end of the ceremonial 'Nawab' title's associated government benefits for Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and other former rulers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nawab Pataudi

Who was Nawab Mohammad Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi?
Nawab Mohammad Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, popularly known as 'Tiger Pataudi', was an iconic Indian cricketer and a transformative captain of the Indian cricket team, active primarily from the late 1950s to the early 1970s. He is widely considered one of India's greatest cricket captains and fielders.
Why was he called 'Tiger Pataudi'?
The nickname 'Tiger' was passed down from his father, who also bore the moniker. It was also attributed to Mansoor Ali Khan's aggressive and agile style of play, his quick movements, and daring approach on the cricket field, embodying the characteristics of a tiger.
What was special about his captaincy?
Pataudi became India's youngest Test captain at just 21 years old. Despite a debilitating eye injury sustained before his Test debut, he led the team with exceptional foresight and instilled a new, aggressive cricketing philosophy, significantly influencing Indian cricket's development on the global stage. He championed a more attacking style of play and fostered a strong team spirit.
Was he also a royal?
Yes, he was the ceremonial 'Nawab of Pataudi', succeeding his father Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi, who was the last ruling Nawab of the princely state of Pataudi during the British Raj. However, all associated governmental privileges and the privy purse were formally abolished by the Indian government in 1971 through the 26th Constitutional Amendment.
Why was he considered one of the best fielders of his time?
Pataudi possessed remarkable athleticism, sharp reflexes, and a powerful throwing arm, which earned him widespread acclaim, including being called the "best fielder in the world" by contemporary experts like John Arlott and Ted Dexter. He revolutionized fielding standards, setting a benchmark for future generations with his agility and precision.