Mansoor Ali Khan, a Nawab of Pataudi, was born today on 5 January 1941, and ruled the cricket field with his resilience and determination.
Mansoor Pataudi was the youngest player to become captain of India. He led the Indian cricket team in 46 Tests, serving as captain 40 times, amassing 2793 runs and six centuries in a career that commenced after a life-altering car crash cost him the sight in one eye.
Under his guidance, India secured their first overseas Test victory against New Zealand in 1968, marking a historic milestone for Indian cricket. His captaincy legacy is widely regarded as unparalleled in Indian cricket history.
Retiring in 1975, Pataudi continued to contribute to the sport, transitioning to the role of a match referee from 1993 to 1996. His cricketing journey concluded with his passing in 2011, succumbing to a lung infection.
Yesterday, Mansoor Ali Khan’s daughter Soha Ali Khan had visited Melbourne Cricket to witness the place where his father once played.