Datta Gaekwad

Name Hindi: दत्ता गायकवाड / Gender Man

Datta Gaekwad – A Respected Figure in the World of Cricket

Dattajirao Krishnarao Gaekwad, popularly known as Datta Gaekwad is a former cricketer who represented India. He played in 11 test matches between 1952 and 1961 but his fame extends beyond just these appearances.

• In his cricket career spanning roughly a decade, he scored 350 runs at an average of 19.44 which included two half-centuries.
• Gaekwad was part of India’s tour to West Indies in 1953-54 where he scored his first half-century (33 & 52) at Guyana in only the second game of the series.
• His role surpassed being just a batsman; Gaekwad was also entrusted with the responsibility of leading Team India towards its maiden Test victory against England.
• Led by him, India won their first ever overseas match against New Zealand in Dunedin during the year 1968.

Though not lavishly decorated with records, Datta’s dedication for cricket has been supremely evident through his life journey, giving rise to a legacy that goes beyond numbers.

Post-retirement, Gaekwad took up coaching assignments nurturing young talent and ensuring that cricket flourishes in his home town Baroda. He acted as a selector for a period.

He served as Chairman, Sports Panel of Municipal Corporation of Vadodara from 1985 to 1990 and worked actively towards evolving sports culture among all forms of society. There, he implemented various sports and activities for the lower income groups of society to participate in.

His son Anshuman Gaekwad

Gaekwad’s contribution to cricket does not end with his own career. His son Anshuman Gaekwad represented India, starting from 1974 till 1985 and turned into one of the popular cricketers during that era. Datta’s influence played a key role in shaping Anshuman as a cricketer..

• In September 2012, Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) named their new stadium after two of its most famous cricketing sons: “The Gavde-Gaekwad Stadium” – The other part being Polly Umrigar.
• Gaekwad was also awarded Lifetime Achievement Award by BCA for his immense contribution towards development of cricket in Vadodara region.

Datta Gaekwad may not have reached dizzy heights in terms of statistics but beyond numbers, as an ardent suitor of cricket, he has contributed vastly to Indian cricket scenario.

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