Name Hindi: विजय आनंद गजपति राजू / Gender Man
Vijay Ananda Gajapathi Raju, A Legend of Cricket
A cricket icon who made significant contributions to the game, both on and off the field.
Vijay Ananda Gajapathi Raju’s talents as a cricketer were equally matched by his commitment towards enhancing the status
of cricket in India.
Early Life and Background
Born into one of Andhra Pradesh’s most illustrious families, Vijay Ananda Gajapathi Raju showed an early interest
in sports. He came from a rich lineage where public service was considered more than just duty. Known also by his royal title,
‘Vizianagaram’, he brought the same ethos of dedication to his sporting career.
Sporting Journey
His introduction to formal cricket happened quite late in life, beginning at university level before quickly rising through the ranks due to his considerable talent. His style was typically aggressive with a heavy focus on front-foot play, which gained popularity among both fans and officials alike.
- 1930: Received recognition for his performance when playing for Hindus during a Quadrangular tournament.
- 1931: Led Vizzy Trophy XI against DB Deodhar’s team.
- 1936/37: Led Indian cricket team on their first tour to England after taking over captaincy from CK Nayudu.
Career Off The Field
Vijay Ananda Gajapathi Raju was more than an on-field hero. Off the field, he focused his efforts on promoting cricket in India.
- Cricket Administration: He served as the president of Cricket Association of Bengal and contributed significantly to improving infrastructure for cricket in West Bengal.
- Poet & Patron of the Arts: Apart from being a fine cricketer, Vijay was also known as poet. His work largely revolved around romance and humour, mirroring the flamboyance with which he played cricket.
A Controversial Figure
Vijay Ananda Gajapathi Raju continues to be a controversial figure in Indian cricket history. Although his contributions towards enhancing the sport cannot be understated, there were several instances where blunders during his leadership caused disappointment among fans and fellow team members alike. However, his charm and aristocratic demeanor kept him squarely in public favor while his dedication ensured that he left a lasting legacy upon Indian cricket.
