Indian cricketer who played 14 Test matches and 13 One Day Internationals for India between 1961 and 1969, known for his all-round skills as a right-arm medium-pace bowler and a hard-hitting lower-order batsman.
A. G. Kripal Singh, fondly remembered as one of India's most esteemed Test cricketers, left an indelible mark on the world of cricket with his remarkable batting skills and off-spin bowling prowess. Born on August 6, 1933, Kripal Singh's illustrious career, spanning over two decades, earned him a revered place in the Indian cricket fraternity.
Kripal Singh hails from a cricketing dynasty, with his father, A. G. Ram Singh, being an accomplished cricketer who narrowly missed the opportunity to represent India. His brother, Milkha Singh, also went on to become a Test cricketer, while other family members excelled in first-class cricket.
Kripal Singh's meteoric rise to fame began with his stellar performance in the 1954-55 Ranji Trophy, where he steered Madras to victory, amassing 636 runs and claiming 13 wickets. His remarkable form continued in the semifinal against Bengal, where he scored 98 and 97, with the latter innings total being 139, in which no other player reached double figures. Additionally, he took 4 for 18 in the second innings, showcasing his all-round abilities.
In the final against Holkar, Kripal Singh's incredible scores of 75 and 91, coupled with seven wickets, sealed Madras' narrow victory. Earlier in the season, he achieved his career-best score of 208 against Travancore-Cochin.
Selected for the Test series against New Zealand in 1955-56, Kripal Singh etched his name in history by scoring a century on his debut, a feat he would not repeat in his subsequent Test matches. He went on to score two more fifties, including a defiant 53 against West Indies in 1958-59.
In 1959, Kripal Singh toured England, where he impressed with a score of 178 against Lancashire. Although he played in only one Test during the tour, scoring 41, a finger injury limited his appearances.
In the Third Test of the 1961-62 series against England, Kripal Singh was embroiled in a controversy involving Subhash Gupte, which ultimately led to Gupte's career being cut short. Kripal Singh took his first wicket in Test cricket in the same match, after bowling 588 balls in nine innings and ten Tests.
A. G. Kripal Singh's remarkable cricketing journey, marked by his impressive debut century and subsequent consistent performances, earned him a place in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts. His contributions to Indian cricket, both on and off the field, continue to inspire generations of cricketers.
As we reflect on Kripal Singh's storied career, we are reminded of the importance of perseverance, hard work, and dedication in achieving greatness.
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