In the early twentieth century when cricket was taking its roots in the country, one man's pioneering efforts stand out like a shooting star on a dark night. The tall, well-built CK Nayudu's is a name which even today is taken with reverence, so great was the man's talent and so significant was his contribution to the growth of the game in the country. Right from 1916, when he made his playing debut, to 1964, when he came out to play at 69 years of age, CK, rode like a colossus on the Indian cricket firmament.A terrific striker of the ball he could hit sixes at will - CK was, perhaps, the first professional in the days of the Raj when patronage provided by the maharajas sustained the game. His hitting prowess had gained him so much fame that the crowds would flock to see him bat and he would rarely disappoint them. His 153 for Holkar's against the visiting MCC in 1926-27 is still talked about with awe. He struck 11 sixes and 13 fours in that innings of magical brilliance. The time taken to make thoseruns, a mere 100 minutes. It was not just his batting alone which made him a much hated/respect rival, his slow medium pace bowling troubled the batsmen no end and fetched CK a number of wickets.He was past his peak when India made its international Test debut in England. After much chicanery, intrigue and stealth - something which has become part and parcel of the cricketing establishment - CK was finally asked to lead the side to England in 1932. CK, true to his reputation, scored 1,068 runs on that tour at an average of 40.45 and took 65 wickets (25.53). Despite advancing age, he continued to score heavily, making a double century in 1945-46 for Holkar's against Bombay.In Indore a monument has been erected in his memory - a huge bat - which stands as a testimony to CK Nayudu's great talent. He was one of the first and now among the best of all-rounders the game has ever seen.- PMBeginning this week every Sunday we will focus on one player who changed the face of Indiancricket.
