A draw that felt like a win. India pulled off one of the most remarkable escapes in Test history as KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar stood…
Sunil Manohar Gavaskar was born on 10 July 1949 in Mumbai (then Bombay), India, into a Marathi middle-class family. His father Manohar was active in club cricket, while his mother Pushpa managed the household. Cricket ran in his veins—his maternal uncle, Madhav Mantri, represented India, offering early mentorship that shaped young Gavaskar’s technical base.
After excelling at St. Xavier’s High School and College, he earned “India’s Best Schoolboy Cricketer” in 1966, thanks to double hundreds and high scores like 246* and 222. Though he joined the Bombay Ranji squad in 1966–67, selection only came in 1968–69. From his second match onward, he proved his class, scored successive hundreds, and secured his spot.
Standing just 5’5″ (1.65 m), Gavaskar didn’t rely on power but on immaculate technique, balance, and crisp footwork. Called the “Little Master”, he stood tall against ferocious fast bowlers—no helmet, no fear.
Off the field, he’s thoughtful, articulate, and analytical. Post-retirement, he built a reputation as a cricket commentator, columnist, and expert analyst. He balances a private life with public insight—avid reader, occasional badminton player, well-rounded individual drawn to mental clarity.
Sunil Gavaskar married Marshneill “Marsh” Gavaskar in 1974. Marshneill, known for her composed demeanor and philanthropic involvement, has been a constant source of strength throughout his illustrious career. The couple has two children, including their son Rohan Gavaskar, who represented Bengal in domestic cricket and also played for India in ODIs. Their daughter Nafisa Gavaskar has chosen to maintain a private life away from the spotlight.
Gavaskar’s extended family also shares deep cricketing ties. His sister Nutan Gavaskar has been active in women’s cricket administration, promoting grassroots development of the game. Another sister, Kavita, is married to former India batsman Gundappa Viswanath, adding another celebrated name to their cricketing lineage. The Gavaskar-Vishwanath connection is one of the most respected in Indian cricket circles, often cited as a symbol of tradition, unity, and sportsmanship. The family’s collective contribution to cricket and public life extends beyond the field, with each member actively supporting charitable causes, youth mentorship, and community development, making them one of India’s most admired cricketing families.
From dominating school cricket via double centuries, Gavaskar advanced to Bombay’s Ranji Trophy team. Despite an initial duck in 1968–69, he responded with 114, then back-to-back centuries.
His domestic consistency earned him a place in India’s 1970–71 West Indies tour squad. He made history by scoring a staggering 774 runs in just four Tests, with an average of 154.80—still a debut series record.
Overall, in first-class cricket he played 348 matches, scored 25,834 runs at an average of 51.46, with 81 centuries and 105 fifties. His unshakeable technique thrived against both spin and pace.
Gavaskar debuted in Tests on 6 March 1971 against West Indies, and in ODIs on 13 July 1974 vs England. His Test span lasted until 13 March 1987, while his ODI era closed on 5 November 1987.
| Format | Mat | Inn | NO | Runs | HS | Avg | 100s/50s | Catches |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 125 | 214 | 16 | 10,122 | 236* | 51.12 | 34/45 | 108 |
| ODI | 108 | 102 | 14 | 3,092 | 103* | 35.13 | 1/27 | 22 |
Became the first batsman to reach 10,000 Test runs.
Held the world record of 34 Test centuries, surpassing Bradman’s 29, until Tendulkar in 2005.
Set the highest debut series tally—774 runs at an average of 154.80.
Famous for playing two centuries in a single Test multiple times .
Mastered the art of facing short-pitched bowling without helmets .
Captained India in 47 Tests (9 wins, 8 losses, 30 draws), and led ODI side sporadically.
Notably led India to the 1984 Asia Cup and 1985 World Championship victories.
Ended career as the first non-wicketkeeper Indian with 100 Test catches
Awarded the Arjuna Award (1975), Padma Shri (1980), Padma Bhushan (1983), and named Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1980).
Lead India to two major titles: Asia Cup 1984 and World Championship 1985.
First batsman to reach 10,000 Test runs and score 34 centuries.
Honored in ICC Hall of Fame (2009) and received C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award (2012).
The Border–Gavaskar Trophy (since 1996) commemorates his legacy
