Tributes pour in for C. D. Gopinath, a member of India’s first-ever Test victory team, as IPL players and BCCI remember his lasting contribution to Indian cricket.
Players from Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings paid tribute to former India cricketer C. D. Gopinath by wearing black armbands during their Indian Premier League (IPL) match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday. The gesture was made as a mark of respect following Gopinath’s passing last week at the age of 96.
Gopinath held the distinction of being India’s oldest Test cricketer and the second-oldest in the world, after Australian legend Neil Harvey. His death marks the end of an era associated with the formative years of Indian cricket.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also issued an official statement mourning his demise, describing it as a major loss to the sport. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia highlighted Gopinath’s role in shaping Indian cricket during its early years.
“Mr C. D. Gopinath belonged to a generation that helped shape Indian cricket in its formative years. Being part of India’s first Test victory is a distinction that will always be remembered,” Saikia said.
Gopinath played a crucial role in India’s early international journey and was part of the historic team that recorded India’s first-ever Test victory against England in 1952 in Madras, now known as Chennai. That landmark victory remains one of the most celebrated moments in Indian cricket history.
Over his international career, Gopinath represented India in eight Test matches between 1951 and 1960. He made an impressive debut, scoring 50 not out and 42, immediately showcasing his batting ability and composure at the highest level.
Beyond his international appearances, Gopinath was a prominent figure in domestic cricket, particularly in Tamil Nadu. He captained the Tamil Nadu team and led them to their first-ever Ranji Trophy triumph during the 1954–55 season. His performance in the final was especially memorable, as he scored a century to help secure the historic title.
Across his first-class career, Gopinath scored 4,259 runs in 60 matches, establishing himself as one of the dependable batters of his time.
His contributions to cricket did not end with his playing days. Gopinath remained actively involved in the sport, serving as a national selector and later becoming chairman of selectors. He also managed the Indian team during the 1979 tour of England, continuing to guide and mentor players long after retiring from competitive cricket.
Following his passing, Chandrakant Patankar, who played a single Test match in 1956, has now become India’s oldest living Test cricketer.
Meanwhile, in the match itself, Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl first. The decision paid early dividends as KKR struck quickly in the powerplay, dismissing Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Despite the early setback, CSK found momentum through Sanju Samson and young batter Ayush Mhatre, who steadied the innings and helped the team reach 72/1 at the end of the powerplay.