Name Hindi: ख़ेरशेद मेहरहोमजी / Gender Man
About Khershed Meherhomji
Khershed Rustomji Meherhomji (1911 – 1986) was a well-known cricketer. He is most recognized as playing for the Indian team during England tour in their early international cricket days.
Career Highlights
Meherhomji made his test debut against England at Lord’s in June, 1932 which happened to be India’s first ever Test match. His second and final appearance also came on the esteemed English cricket ground of Old Trafford just about two months later.
Educational Background
Born in Bombay (now Mumbai), Meherhomji studied at St Xavier’s College where he took up cricket passionately. From there, he made his way into competitive cricket through local championships before making it into the Indian national team.
Achievements & Legacy
- In just two matches that he played, this wicketkeeper-batsman scored a total of 49 runs with an average of 16.33. His highest score was 23.
- He might have had a brief international career, but contributed significantly on the domestic front. In first-class cricket that spanned from 1929/30 to 1945/46 seasons, Meherhomji aggregated over 1000 runs and effected nearly 150 dismissals behind the stumps.
- Despite limited opportunities, he stood out for his impeccable glove-work behind the stumps, particularly countering spin bowling effectively.
- The Parsi cricketer made significant contributions to regional tournaments like Bombay Quadrangular and Pentangular till these contests were discontinued after World War II due to their communal flavour.
Later Life
In his later years, Meherhomji served diligently as a cricket administrator. He was known for mentoring young athletes and worked tirelessly towards promoting the sport locally and nationally.
He died in 1986 leaving behind a legacy of inspiring sportsmanship and passion for cricket within India’s budding sporting community.
The Legacy Continues
Khershed Rustomji Meherjomji might have not had an extensive career as some of his peers did, but his commitment to the game showed that he held the right spirit which makes him still remembered fondly by enthusiasts of Indian cricket. His name is proudly incorporated into pages of Indian sports history for bringing finesse to wicket-keeping at a time when professional training was scarcely available.
