Indian cricket's opening batsman and captain, renowned for his stylish and aggressive playing style, scoring over 13,000 runs in first-class cricket.
Vijay Singh Madhavji Merchant, a cricketing legend, is renowned for his exceptional batting skills and is credited with founding the Bombay School of Batsmanship. With a staggering first-class batting average of 71.64, the second-highest in history, Merchant dominated Indian domestic cricket, earning him a revered place in the cricketing world.
Born on October 12, 1911, in Bombay, India, Merchant came from a wealthy Gujarati family. He developed a passion for cricket during his college days at Sydenham College, where he captained the team and showcased his exceptional skills. His success in college cricket led to his selection for the Hindus cricket team in the 1929 Bombay Quadrangular.
Merchant's impressive performance in domestic cricket earned him a call-up to the India national team, where he made his Test debut against England in 1929. Throughout his career, he played 10 Test matches for India, scoring over 800 runs during two tours of England.
Merchant is celebrated for introducing a unique approach to batting, which emphasized technique, temperament, and a conservative approach over a free-flowing style. This philosophy, known as the Bombay School of Batsmanship, has influenced generations of cricketers and remains an integral part of India's cricketing heritage.
Merchant's international career was marked by several notable achievements, including scoring over 800 runs during two tours of England. English cricketer C.B. Fry was so impressed with Merchant's skills that he exclaimed, "Let us paint him white and take him with us to Australia as an opener."
In recognition of his contributions to cricket, Merchant was appointed the Sheriff of Bombay in 1970, a prestigious position that reflects his stature in Indian society.
Vijay Merchant's legacy extends beyond his impressive cricketing statistics. He has inspired numerous cricketers, including the legendary Sunil Gavaskar, who credits Merchant with being a significant influence on his own batting style. Merchant's emphasis on technique and temperament has shaped the way Indian cricketers approach the game.
Merchant's impact on Indian cricket is undeniable, and he remains one of the most celebrated cricketers in Indian history. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of cricketers, ensuring that his contribution to the sport will be remembered for years to come.
Besides cricket, Merchant was associated with the Hindoostan Spinning & Weaving Mills Thackersey Group, a prominent business conglomerate. His brother, Uday, also played first-class cricket.
Vijay Merchant passed away on October 27, 1987, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and influence Indian cricket.
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