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Salim Durani was a former Indian cricketer who played as an all-rounder for the Indian cricket team from the 1960s to the 1970s. He was born on December 24, 1934, in Kabirwala, Punjab, British India. Durani was known for his big-hitting abilities, crafty spin bowling, and excellent fielding skills. He was also known for his flamboyant style both on and off the field.
Early Life and Career:
Salim Durani was born to a Punjabi Muslim family in Kabirwala, a small town in British India. His family moved to Ahmedabad when he was young, and Durani started playing cricket in the streets with his friends. His talent was noticed by a local cricket coach, who encouraged him to join a cricket club in the city.
Durani soon made his way into the Gujarat cricket team and impressed with his performances. He made his first-class debut in 1958 and went on to play for Gujarat for several years. His performances in domestic cricket earned him a call-up to the Indian cricket team in 1960.
International Career:
Durani made his international debut against Australia in the 1960-61 series. He had a quiet series, scoring only 71 runs in six innings and taking three wickets. However, he impressed with his fielding skills, taking several catches and effecting run-outs.
Durani's breakthrough series came against England in 1961-62. He scored his maiden Test century in the first Test at Delhi, scoring 104 runs in the first innings. He also took six wickets in the match, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings. India won the match by 128 runs, with Durani being named the Player of the Match.
Durani's all-round skills were on full display in the 1962-63 series against England. He scored 438 runs in the series, including two centuries, and took 20 wickets with his spin bowling. He also took several catches and was named the Player of the Series.
Durani continued to perform well for India in the following years. He scored another century against Australia in 1964-65 and took nine wickets in the match. He was also instrumental in India's series win against England in 1967-68, scoring 333 runs and taking 10 wickets in the series.
Durani's last Test series was against the West Indies in 1971-72. He played a crucial role in India's series win, scoring 232 runs in the series and taking seven wickets. He retired from international cricket after the series, having played 29 Tests and scored 1,202 runs at an average of 25.71. He also took 75 wickets at an average of 35.14.
Domestic Career:
Durani played for Gujarat in domestic cricket for several years. He also played for Rajasthan, Delhi, and Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy. He was known for his big-hitting abilities and scored several centuries in domestic cricket.
Durani also played for Warwickshire in English county cricket. He played for the team in 1968 and 1971, scoring 1,466 runs and taking 45 wickets in 35 matches.
Durani's style both on and off the field was flamboyant, and he was known for his colorful personality. He was often seen smoking a pipe on the field and was known for his witty remarks.
Post-Retirement:
After retiring from cricket, Salim Durani continued to be involved in the sport in various capacities. He served as a cricket commentator and analyst for various television channels, where he shared his expertise and insights with viewers.
Durani also worked as a coach and mentor, sharing his knowledge and experience with young cricketers. He was known for his friendly and approachable demeanor, and many players looked up to him for guidance and inspiration.
In addition to his work in cricket, Durani was also involved in social causes. He worked to promote education and literacy in his home state of Gujarat, and was involved in several initiatives aimed at improving the lives of underprivileged children.
Durani's contributions to Indian cricket were recognized with several awards and honors. In addition to the Arjuna Award he received in 1961, he was also awarded the Padma Shri in 2011, one of the highest civilian honors in India.
Despite his many achievements, Durani remained humble and grounded throughout his life. He continued to be a beloved figure in the cricketing world, and was admired for his skill, charisma, and dedication to the sport.
Death:
This great player died of cancer at the age of 88 on 04/03/2023
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