Written by: Thomas Blackwood

Polly Umrigar: The Cricketer Who Redefined Indian Cricket

Polly Umrigar, one of India's most iconic cricketers, left an indelible mark on the sport with his exceptional batting skills, leadership, and unwavering passion. From 1948 to 1962, Umrigar represented India in 59 Test matches, amassing 3,631 runs and scoring 12 centuries, a record that stood for decades.

Early Life and Beginnings

Born on March 28, 1926, in either Bombay or Solapur, Maharashtra, Umrigar grew up in a Parsi family that valued education and sports. His father, a clothing company owner, encouraged his son's love for cricket, and Polly's talent was soon recognized in school.

Umrigar made his first-class debut for Parsis in the Bombay Pentangular in 1944, at the age of 18. He pursued a BSc degree from St. Xavier's College and captained the Bombay University team. His exceptional skills in cricket were complemented by his proficiency in hockey and football.

Rise to Prominence

Umrigar's breakthrough performance came in 1948 when he scored 115 for Combined Universities against the touring West Indians. This earned him a spot in the Indian team for the 2nd Test against the same team in Bombay.

By the time the Commonwealth teams visited India in 1949-50 and 1950-51, Umrigar had become an integral part of the team. He amassed 276 runs in the unofficial Tests against the first team and 562 runs against the second. His remarkable 102 in the Madras Test, which included two successive sixes off Frank Worrell, cemented his position as a top-order batsman.

Captaining India and Achievements

Umrigar's leadership skills were recognized when he was appointed captain of the Indian team in 1955. He led the team in eight Test matches until 1958, during which he scored 2,219 runs at an average of 44.15.

In 1955-56, Umrigar became the first Indian to score a double century in Test cricket, achieving the feat against New Zealand in Hyderabad. He was honored with the C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award in 1998, the highest recognition given by the Indian cricket board to a former player.

Legacy and Impact

Umrigar's contributions to Indian cricket extend beyond his impressive statistics. He inspired a generation of cricketers, including the likes of Vinoo Mankad and Vijay Manjrekar. His leadership and batting prowess helped elevate India's status in international cricket, paving the way for future generations to follow.

Umrigar's legacy can be seen in the numerous accolades he received, including the Padma Shri in 1962. His name is etched in the history of Indian cricket, and his achievements continue to motivate aspiring cricketers.

Personal Life and Later Years

Apart from his cricketing exploits, Umrigar was known for his humility and simplicity. He remained involved in cricket administration and was a respected voice in the Indian cricket fraternity until his passing on November 7, 2006.

Polly Umrigar's remarkable journey is a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and love for the game. He will forever be remembered as a cricketing legend, whose contributions have enriched the fabric of Indian cricket.

• Birthdate: March 28, 1926
• Death: November 7, 2006
• Tests played: 59
• Test runs: 3,631
• Test centuries: 12
• Awards: Padma Shri (1962), C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award (1998)