Name Hindi: एम. एल. जयसिम्हा / Gender Man
Motganhalli Laxminarsu Jaisimha
Motganhalli Laxminarsu Jaisimha, commonly known as M.L. Jaisimha, was a renowned cricketer from India who brought laurels to the country with his extraordinary talent and sheer determination.
Jaisimha served Indian cricket for an impressive 16 years from 1959-1971 and made significant contributions on both domestic and international stages. He was born on March 3rd, 1939 in Secunderabad, Hyderabad State and died on July 6th, 1999.
Early Life and Education
Jaisimha completed his education at St.George’s Grammar School in Hyderabad which is where his passion towards cricket started taking shape. His incredible timing style seemed natural, evidence of endless hours spent honing this skill. From an early age, he showed potential that caught the eye of selectors.
Career Highlights
- 1960: Scored his maiden test century against England at Lord’s cricket ground.
- 1964: Played famously in the Brisbane Test match, where he flew in as a replacement player, battled jet lag by hitting runs after runs saving India from imminent defeat..
- Tour to Australia in 1947-68: Became one of only two players in history to bat on all five days of a test match.
- Captaincy: Led the Hyderabad team multiple times between 1958-59 and 1969-70 seasons achieving considerable success including Ranji Trophy final twice during his tenure.
- Overs fielded: Holds the record for fielding longest in a test match, being on the ground for all but 20 minutes of the game.
Post-Retirement
After bidding adieu to professional cricket, Jaisimha took up commentary and coaching. He was very articulate – his voice adorned with rich, baritone notes – which made his cricket analysis much sought after. As a coach, he emphasized the importance of understanding the basics and advocated ‘stylish’ cricket, reflecting his own swashbuckling style on the pitch.
Awards and Accolades
Jaisimha’s outstanding contributions to Indian Cricket earned him much recognition. Some highlights include:
- The Arjuna Award (1972): One of India’s highest sporting honours bestowed by the Government of India.
- Poly Umrigar Award (1999): Given posthumously recognizing lifetime contribution to Indian cricket off-field.
In emulation
In honour of M.L.Jaisimha’s services to cricket, every year an intense two-day cricket tournament called “The ML Jaisimha Memorial” takes place among young talent from various schools across Andhra Pradesh.
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Jaisimha passed away on July 6th, 1999 due to lung cancer leaving behind indelible memories that still evoke awe in hearts of countless admirers!
