Happy Birthday Mohinder Amarnath, Jimmy, the World Cup hero from 1983, turns 72 Today. His contribution to building India’s position in World Cricket is unparalleled. Won “Man of the Match” honors in both the semifinal and championship matches in the 1983 World Cup. He is remembered and appreciated for this accomplishment. Amarnath significantly contributed to India’s first World Cup victory.
Early Talent
As a quick-bowling all-rounder, Mohinder made his debut in December 1969 in Chennai against Australia. He was a top-order batsman for India who primarily batted third when he was at his best. Additionally skilled with the ball, he bowled cutters and swings with exceptional finesse and control. His run-up was distinctive in that he slowed down as he approached the bowling crease. He may have appeared drowsy, but he had steely nerves underneath.
In 69 Test matches, Mohinder Amarnath amassed 4,378 runs at a batting average of 42.50. This includes 11 hundred and 24 fifties. He claimed 32 wickets at a bowling average of 55.68 a match. In 85 One Day Internationals, recording 1,924 runs and 46 wickets at an average of 42.84 each.
Quirky Amarnath
He is the only Indian to be dismissed for handling the ball is him.
Jimmy was once kicked out of One-Day International due to field obstruction. He also got out by “hit wicket”.
In his career, he is the only international cricket player in the world to get penalties for both handling the ball and blocking the field.
He had a strange superstition. While batting, he sported a crimson handkerchief that was clearly visible in his pants pocket.
Appreciation by Colleagues
Imran Khan, a fiery fast bowler from Pakistan, and Malcolm Marshall. A fast bowler from the West Indies have lauded his batsmanship, bravery, and capacity for enduring and mastering suffering. Mohinder played 11 Test matches in 1982–1983 against West Indies and Pakistan, winning both series by a combined total of more than 1000 runs.
Sunil Gavaskar, an Indian icon and fellow countryman, referred to Mohinder Amarnath as the best batsman in the world in his book “Idols.”
Amarnath was renowned for his character, bravery, and tenacity. Former Australian Test opening batsman David Boon and West Indian cricketing legend Vivian Richards both praised him. As “one of the kindest men to have ever played the game” and “concede didn’t seem to be in his vocabulary.”
