Name Hindi: केकी तारापोर / Gender Coach
Keki Tarapore: Pioneer of Indian Cricket
A name synonymous with Indian Cricket, Keki Khurshedji Tarapore, continues to rule the hearts of cricket enthusiasts as a coach. Born on August 21, 1930, in Bombay, Keki was a left-arm spinner and his contributions towards developing young talent in India have been immense.
Cricketing Career
Tarapore made his first-class debut for Karnataka (then known as Mysore) against Madras in Chennai way back in 1951. Despite not leaving an indelible mark as a cricket player himself, he went ahead to embolden many emerging cricketers through his exceptional coaching skills.
Humble yet aggressive on field were two distinct characteristics of his which remain etched in people’s memory till today. His career as a player spanned over a decade from 1948-49 until the mid-sixties.
- Milestone: Regarded as one of the finest spinners for Mysore(now Karnataka), completed more than fifty first class matches including Ranji Trophy representation.
- Playing Style: Known for his accurate line and length coupled with patience. Skills that made him started as a promisingas left-armer spinner and continued exploring other genres within the sport interacting with variety of players over time
- Last Fixture: The last tournament he took part in was held in Bangalore against Services during the knockouts of Raj Singh Dungarpur’s inaugural all -India knock-out competition where unfortunately they did not succeed into the rounds further down
Career As A Coach
The metamorphosis from being just another cricket player to becoming one of the most influential and legendary coaches of cricket is what Tarapore remains lauded for. His stint as a coach started in 1972 with the Karnataka State Cricket Association.
He possessed intensive knowledge about cricket which he utilized to churn out some of the best cricketers India has ever produced. He played a sterling role in shaping the careers of future Indian cricketers.Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, Javagal Srinath and Venkatesh Prasad are among his famous trainees who have made substantial marks internationally.
- Award: Received the BCCI Lifetime achievement award for outstanding contribution towards making cricket seeking youngsters believe in dreams they saw breaking away from traditional norms at their times
- KSCA Indoor Training Academy: Set up an academy not just facilitating but nurturing young talent – considerably beneficial underground work being done recognising potentials in talented novices.
Persistence Till End
The love for the sport called him back again even after retirement. He continued serving as an instructor until his demise on August 29, 2001 due a sudden cardiac arrest.The legacy laid down by him stands still till date inspiring many others coming after him. Thus Keki Khurshedji Tarapore’s life true embodies that age is never a constraint – only shine fades; diamonds live forever.
