CD Gopinath, the last surviving member of India’s first-ever Test-winning squad, passed away recently at his residence in Coonoor at the age of 96. A stylish right-handed batter and a sharp fielder, he represented India in eight Test matches during the 1950s. His demise marks the end of an era in Indian cricket, leaving Chandu Patankar as the country’s oldest living Test cricketer.
A Pioneering Career and the Historic 1952 Victory
Born in Madras (now Chennai) in 1930, Chingleput Doraikannu Gopinath made his Test debut against England at the Brabourne Stadium in Bombay in 1951. He made an immediate impact by scoring an unbeaten 50 in the first innings followed by a gritty 42 in the second. His technique and composure against the seasoned English bowlers earned him praise from contemporaries and critics alike.
Gopinath played a crucial role in one of the most significant moments in Indian sporting history. During the fifth Test of the 1951-52 series held in Madras, India recorded its first-ever victory in Test cricket by defeating England by an innings and 8 runs. In addition to his batting contribution, Gopinath is immortalized in Indian cricket history for taking the final catch of Brian Statham off the bowling of Vinoo Mankad, which sealed the historic win.
Contribution to Domestic Cricket and Administrative Roles
Beyond the international arena, Gopinath was a titan of domestic cricket. He captained the Madras (now Tamil Nadu) team for several years and led them to their maiden Ranji Trophy title in the 1954-55 season. In the final against Holkar, he played a match-winning innings of 122, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. He finished his first-class career with 2,349 runs at an average of 42.70.
After retiring from active play, he continued to serve Indian cricket in various administrative capacities. He served as the Chairman of the National Selection Committee and was the manager of the Indian team during the 1979 tour of England. An alumnus of Madras Christian College, he was also a life member of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), reflecting his deep-rooted connection to the global traditions of the game.
Professional Excellence Beyond the Cricket Field
CD Gopinath’s achievements were not limited to the cricket pitch. He enjoyed a distinguished career in the corporate and diplomatic sectors. In 1971, he became the first Indian to be appointed as the Chairman of Gordon Woodroffe, a prominent British company with deep roots in India. He also served as the Sheriff of Madras between 1976 and 1977, and represented Norway as its Honorary Consul.
| Role | Organization or Office | Period |
|---|---|---|
| Chairman | Gordon Woodroffe | From 1971 |
| Sheriff | Madras | 1976-1977 |
| Deputy Chairman | ASSOCHAM | Various terms |
| Honorary Consul | Norway | Distinguished service |
His multi-faceted life was documented in his memoirs titled “Beyond Cricket: A Life in Many Worlds”, published in 2023. He spent his later years in Coonoor, where he remained a respected figure in the community. His wife, Comala Gopinath, was also a sports enthusiast and a former champion golfer.
The Living Legends of Indian Cricket
With the passing of CD Gopinath, the title of India’s oldest living Test cricketer now belongs to Chandu Patankar. Born in 1930, Patankar was a wicketkeeper-batter who represented India in a single Test match against New Zealand in 1955. On the global stage, Australian batting legend Neil Harvey, who is 97 years old, remains the world’s oldest living Test cricketer.
| Cricketer | Age (in 2026) | Country | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neil Harvey | 97 | Australia | World’s oldest living Test cricketer |
| Chandu Patankar | 95 | India | India’s oldest living Test cricketer |
This generational shift highlights the enduring legacy of the early pioneers of Indian cricket. Gopinath was part of a cohort that transitioned India from a team seeking its first win to a formidable force on the international stage.
Key Takeaways
- CD Gopinath, India’s oldest living Test cricketer, passed away recently at the age of 96.
- He was the last surviving member of the Indian squad that recorded the country’s first-ever Test victory against England in 1952.
- Gopinath represented India in eight Test matches between 1951 and 1960 and later served as the Chairman of the National Selection Committee.
- He captained the Madras team to its maiden Ranji Trophy title during the 1954-55 season.
- Following his passing, former wicketkeeper-batter Chandu Patankar (95) has become India’s oldest living Test cricketer.
- Australian batting legend Neil Harvey (97) remains the world’s oldest living Test cricketer among all nations.
