Vinoo Mankad, whose full name was Mulvantrai Himmatlal Mankad, was a legendary Indian cricketer who was a key figure in the early years of Indian Test cricket. He was an exceptional all-rounder, known for his left-arm spin bowling and aggressive batting. Here are some key highlights of Vinoo Mankad’s cricket career:

1. Debut and Early Career: Vinoo Mankad made his Test debut for the Indian cricket team in 1946 against England at Lord’s. He soon established himself as one of India’s premier cricketers.
2. All-Round Skills: Mankad was a genuine all-rounder. He was a left-arm spinner who could turn the ball both ways and a dynamic batsman who often batted in the middle order.
3. Memorable Innings: Mankad is best known for his remarkable all-round performance in the second Test of the 1952 India-England series. He scored 72 and 184 runs and took 5 wickets in the second innings. This match is often referred to as the “Mankad Test.”
4. Partnership Records: Mankad was involved in several record partnerships, including a world-record opening partnership of 413 runs with Pankaj Roy against New Zealand in 1956.
5. West Indies Tour 1948: Mankad was a part of the historic Indian tour of the West Indies in 1948. He played a key role in India’s first-ever Test series win outside India.
6. Spin Bowling: Mankad was a prolific wicket-taker with his left-arm spin, and he played a pivotal role in many Indian Test victories.
7. IPL and Legacy: In the modern era of Indian cricket, the term “Mankad” is associated with the controversial act of running out a non-striker backing up too far at the bowler’s end. This move is named after Vinoo Mankad, who used it during a Test match against Australia in 1947.
8. Post-Retirement: After his playing career, Mankad remained involved in cricket as a coach and administrator. He coached the Indian team and also served as a selector.

Vinoo Mankad’s contributions to Indian cricket are considered invaluable. His all-round abilities and the significant role he played in India’s early Test successes have left a lasting legacy. Mankad is remembered as one of the greatest cricketers in the history of Indian cricket.