24 September - Mohinder Amarnath birthday

 

Mohinder Amarnath is a celebrated figure in Indian cricket, known for his all-round abilities and pivotal role in India's cricketing history. Here are more details about his life and career:

Early Life and Education

• Birth: Mohinder Amarnath was born on 09 September 1950, in Patiala, Punjab, into a family with a strong cricketing background. His father, Lala Amarnath, was one of India's first cricketing stars and played a significant role in shaping Mohinder's early interest in the sport.

Domestic Career

• Amarnath made his debut in domestic cricket playing for Punjab in the early 1970s.
• He was known for his versatility, contributing significantly as a batsman and bowler.
• Over his domestic career, he scored more than 6,000 runs and took over 400 wickets in first-class cricket.

International Career

• Test Debut: Amarnath made his Test debut for India against New Zealand in 1969. He played 69 Test matches, scoring 4,378 runs with an average of 42.50, including 11 centuries.
• One Day Internationals (ODIs): He was also a key player in ODIs, participating in 85 matches and accumulating 2,200 runs at an average of 42.34, with 1 century.

1983 Cricket World Cup

• Amarnath's most memorable performances came during the 1983 Cricket World Cup.
• He scored 65 runs in the semi-final against England, which helped India secure a spot in the final.
• In the final against the West Indies, he played a crucial innings, scoring 47 runs and taking 3 wickets for 12 runs. His performance earned him the Player of the Match award, making him a key figure in India’s historic victory.

Later Career and Coaching

• After retiring from international cricket in the late 1980s, Amarnath transitioned into coaching and cricket administration.
• He served as a coach for various teams and worked with the Indian national team as a selector.
• Amarnath has been involved in nurturing young talent and sharing his extensive knowledge of the game.

Legacy

• Mohinder Amarnath is celebrated not only for his contributions on the field but also for his cricketing intellect and leadership qualities.
• His journey is often cited as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers, especially those coming from humble beginnings.
• He remains a prominent figure in discussions about Indian cricket's evolution and success on the international stage.

Overall, Amarnath's impact on Indian cricket is profound, making him a beloved and respected figure in the sport's history.