The passing of Salim Durani, the legendary Indian cricketer, has left a void in the hearts of cricket fans. Durani’s swashbuckling style of play and his unique ability to predict his shots made him a beloved figure in the cricket world. His contribution to Indian cricket cannot be measured in numbers alone, as he was a true icon of the game.
Durani’s promise to dismiss two West Indian legends, Gary Sobers and Clive Lloyd, in a test match in 1971 is a moment etched in cricketing history. India scored a memorable win in that test. His ability to fulfill that promise with ease made him a hero in the eyes of Indian cricket fans.
Looking like a film hero, he got the chance to act opposite the famous Parveen Babi, in the film Charitra in 1973. Even though Durani scored just one century, his stature as a domestic giant made him one of the cricketing icons of the country. The allrounder scored 8,545 runs in 170 first-class games and also took a mind boggling 484 wickets with his left-arm spin. He was the first cricketer to win an Arjuna award besides also being awarded the C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award by the BCCI in 2011. Durani’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of cricketers, and his contributions to the game will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in peace.
