Name Hindi: रोजर बिन्नी / Gender Man
Roger Binny: A Cricket Legend
Roger Michael Humphrey Binny, fondly known as Roger Binny, carved a significant niche for himself in the world of cricket. Born on July 19th, 1955, he was one of the finest cricketers India has ever produced. His internationally acclaimed bowling skills earned him millions of fans worldwide.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Roger Binny was born in Bangalore, Karnataka, and started to play competitive cricket at a very young age. After shining through the junior levels with his outstanding all-round abilities, particularly bowling, he emerged into the national spotlight when he became part of the Karnataka team in domestic cricket.
National Recognition and International Debut
In the late 1970s, Roger Binny’s exploits for Karnataka caught the attention of selectors who picked him for national duties. Making his international debut in June 1979 against West Indies, Binny impressed everyone with his sturdy medium-fast bowling and useful contributions with the bat lower down the order.
Career Highlights
- 1983 Cricket World Cup: His pivotal role during this tournament is etched forever in Indian cricket history. Binny finished as the leading wicket-taker with 18 scalps which played a substantial part in steering India toward its first-ever World Cup triumph.
- All-round Performances: Having represented India in several Test matches, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and First Class games, Binny excelled both with the ball and sometimes with the bat too delivering magnificent match-winning performances.
- Test career: In total, Binny featured in 27 Tests where he took 47 wickets and scored 830 runs. He played his final Test match against South Africa in November 1992.
- ODI career: Binny played 72 ODI matches for India taking 77 wickets and scoring 629 runs.
Post-Retirement Contributions to Cricket
Apart from being a brilliant cricketer, Binny also made significant contributions off the field. Post-retirement, he served as a cricket coach, referee, selector, and commentator. In fact, he was part of the selection committee that chose the Indian team for the 2011 World Cup which India won.
Awards and Honours
- In recognition of his eminent service in nurturing sport at the grassroots level, Roger Binny received the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award, one of Karnataka’s highest civilian awards in 1986.
- Roger Binny’s invaluable contribution to cricket has earned him many laurels over the years including induction into the Karnataka State Cricket Association Hall Of Fame .
Although Roger Binny may have exited the field long ago, his passion for cricket remains undiminished to this day. His illustrious legacy continues through his son Stuart Binny who is also an international cricketer representing India.
