India lost one of its oldest cricketing figures on Thursday with the passing of C. D. Gopinath, who died at the age of 96. With his death, Indian cricket also lost the final living connection to the country’s historic first-ever Test victory in 1952.

Gopinath, who was India’s oldest living Test cricketer, is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. Globally, he was the second-oldest surviving Test cricketer after Australian great Neil Harvey, who is 97.

Following his demise, Mumbai-based former cricketer Chandrakant Patankar, aged 95, has now become India’s oldest surviving Test player.

Last Link To India’s Historic First Test Victory

Gopinath remained closely associated with one of Indian cricket’s most iconic moments — the nation’s first-ever Test win, achieved against England national cricket team at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium (then known as Chepauk) in 1952.

India secured a famous innings-and-eight-run victory in that match, marking a defining moment in the country’s cricketing journey.

Even decades later, Gopinath fondly recalled those historic days with humour and charm.

“That’s the benefit of a long life — you keep adding to the story. But the benefit of doubt always goes to the batsman, doesn’t it?” he once joked while recounting the famous win.

A Brief But Memorable Test Career

Though his international career was relatively short, Gopinath left a meaningful mark in Indian cricket.

He played eight Test matches for India, scoring 242 runs, including one half-century. His Test career began promisingly with scores of 50 and 42 against England at Brabourne Stadium in 1951.

However, a modest tour of England later that year limited his opportunities in the national side.

Despite the short international stint, Gopinath never expressed bitterness about his limited appearances. Instead, he shifted his focus to domestic cricket, where he enjoyed sustained success.

Strong Domestic Record And Captaincy Role

In domestic cricket, Gopinath was a dominant presence. Representing Madras (now Tamil Nadu), he frequently led the side and delivered consistent performances.

Across 83 first-class matches, he scored 4,259 runs at an impressive average of 42, including nine centuries.

One of his standout performances came during a tour of New Zealand for the South Zone team, where he scored a brilliant 175 runs in the second innings. Although the team lost the match, his knock earned admiration from several New Zealand players.

Among those impressed were notable cricketers like John Reid and Bert Sutcliffe, who later visited him in the dressing room to praise his innings.

Key Administrative Roles After Retirement

After retiring from active cricket, Gopinath continued contributing to the sport in administrative roles.

He served as chief selector of the Indian national team and later became manager of the Indian team during its 1979 tour of England.

That tour is remembered for one of cricket’s most dramatic run chases, when Sunil Gavaskar scored a monumental 221 runs while chasing a daunting target of 438 at The Oval. India eventually finished at 429/8, narrowly missing victory as the match ended in a draw.

Gopinath often spoke admiringly about Gavaskar’s technique and discipline, considering that match among the most memorable moments of his managerial tenure.

A Lifelong Love For Cricket — Including The IPL Era

Even in his later years, Gopinath remained actively interested in modern cricket. He closely followed the Indian Premier League and supported the Chennai Super Kings.

His admiration for Mahendra Singh Dhoni was particularly notable.

He once explained his support for Chennai not just because of Dhoni’s tactical brilliance, but because of his calm and dignified behaviour on the field.

“I pick CSK mainly because of MSD — not just his cricketing brain, but the way he plays. He doesn’t strut or make gestures. That makes me comfortable,” he said during a CSK function.

Remembered As A Gentleman Of The Game

Beyond statistics and achievements, Gopinath was widely respected for his sportsmanship and humility.

He remained a keen observer of the game throughout his life, embracing change while respecting cricket’s traditions. His personality reflected the values of an earlier era — competitive on the field, but gracious off it.

With his passing, Indian cricket has lost not just a former player and administrator, but a living link to one of the most treasured chapters in its history.