THE FOUNDATION
How one man built the reputation of Indian batting and inspired generations.
BEFORE SUNNY
- •Indian batting fragile against pace
- •No one had reached major milestones
- •Seen as weak tourists abroad
- •Lacked world-class opening batsmen
- •Technical deficiencies exposed overseas
AFTER SUNNY
- ✓India produced world-class batsmen
- ✓Technical excellence became standard
- ✓Mumbai school of batting flourished
- ✓Opening batting became a position of strength
- ✓Set template for success in all conditions
THE LINEAGE
Technique. Discipline. Concentration. The Gavaskar way.
Dilip Vengsarkar
"The Colonel" - Another Mumbai batsman who followed Gavaskar's template. Technical perfection, especially against pace. 17 Test centuries.
Sanjay Manjrekar
Textbook technique, solid defense. The Gavaskar influence clear in every innings. Carried forward the Mumbai tradition.
Rahul Dravid
"The Wall" - Though from Bangalore, embodied Gavaskar's principles. Technique, concentration, courage. The spiritual successor.
The Modern Era
Every Indian opener since has been measured against Gavaskar. The standard he set became the benchmark for excellence.
AWARDS & HONORS
Padma Shri
India's fourth-highest civilian honor
Padma Bhushan
India's third-highest civilian honor
Wisden Cricketer of the Year
Cricket's most prestigious individual honor
ICC Cricket Hall of Fame
Inducted among cricket's immortals
Col. CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement
BCCI's highest honor
THE SECOND INNINGS
After retirement, Gavaskar became one of cricket's most respected commentators and analysts. His technical knowledge, combined with his experience facing the world's best, made him invaluable in the commentary box.
He brought the same precision to commentary that he brought to batting. Every word measured, every analysis backed by experience. When Gavaskar spoke about technique, people listened.
He also served as an administrator, helping shape Indian cricket's future. From player to commentator to administrator—his contribution to the game continued long after his playing days.
"Technique is not about looking good. It's about surviving. And I survived the best."