Name Hindi: दत्तू फड़कर / Gender Man
Dattu Phadkar
Dattatreya Gajanan ‘Dattu’ Phadkar (12 April 1925 – 17 March 1985) was an Indian cricketer. He was a genuine all-rounder, known for his batting and bowling abilities as well as fielding skills that saw him represent India in international matches from the late 1940s to the early 1960s.
Early Career
Born in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Phadkar’s passion for cricket began at an early age. He played for various local teams before he made it to Bombay University team and eventually entered first-class cricket by representing ‘Bombay’ team in Ranji Trophy during the mid-1940s.
International Career
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Made his Test debut against Australia at Sydney on 12 December 47. He took three wickets and scored a half-century despite India losing the match.
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In just his second game, he impressed with both bat and ball, scalping four Australian wickets and becoming the first Indian cricketer to score a fifty and take a four-wicket haul in the same Test.
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In total, Phadkar represented India in 31 tests over a span of twelve years till November 1959 where he accumulated a total of 872 runs including two centuries while nabbing up around 50 wickets scoring one five-wicket haul. His best figure was seven wickets for 159.
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He captained Team India twice but unfortunately lost both games against West Indies on their tour to India in the year 1958-59.
Beyond Cricket
Besides his remarkable career in cricket, Dattu Phadkar was known for his humility and sportsmanship. He put the spirit of the game above personal milestones and performances. Even after his retirement from competitive cricket he continuously stayed involved with the sport as a mentor and coach to aspiring Indian cricketers.
Awards & Recognition
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In recognition of his services to Indian cricket, Dattu Phadkar was bestowed with one of the highest sporting honours in India – the Arjuna award – in 1961.
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The prestigious Bombay University Institute has named its cricket ground after him as a tribute to this great all-rounder for his contribution towards enhancing the popularity and stature of cricket in India.
Legacy
Dattu Phadkars’ death on March 17th at only age 59 caused numerous tributes to this legendary player by many notable names in cricket. He is remembered not only for his cricketing skills but also for his sportsmanship, mentorship and contributions to developing future generation cricketers till date.
