Sunil Gavaskar Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Records & Achievements
Introduction
Sunil Gavaskar, fondly called “Little Master”, is one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history. Known for his flawless technique and fearless batting against the world’s fastest bowlers, he redefined Indian cricket in the 1970s and 1980s. Gavaskar was the first cricketer to score 10,000 Test runs and held the record for most Test centuries (34) for many years.
Personal Information
Full Name & Birth Details
- Full Name: Sunil Manohar Gavaskar
- Date of Birth: 10 July 1949
- Birthplace: Mumbai (then Bombay), Maharashtra, India
Nationality & Zodiac Sign
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 65 kg
- Build: Slim & Athletic
Despite his short stature, Gavaskar’s strong defense and sharp stroke play made him a giant on the cricket field.
Early Life & Family Background
Childhood & Parents
Sunil was born into a middle-class Marathi family. His father, Manohar Gavaskar, was a club cricketer who inspired his love for the game.
First Steps in Cricket
From a young age, Gavaskar displayed immense talent. He played gully cricket and later joined proper coaching setups, quickly establishing himself as a prodigy.
Education Journey
He studied at St. Xavier’s High School, Mumbai, where his cricketing skills blossomed. Later, he attended St. Xavier’s College, representing his college and Bombay in competitive cricket.
Rise in Domestic Cricket
Bombay Cricket Days
Gavaskar made his Ranji Trophy debut for Bombay (Mumbai) in 1968–69, immediately showcasing his class.
First-Class Success
His consistent performances earned him a call-up to the Indian national team, marking the beginning of a historic career.
International Debut & Rise
Sunil Gavaskar made his Test debut against West Indies in 1971, a series that instantly made him a superstar. He scored 774 runs in just 4 Tests, including 4 centuries, against a deadly pace attack — a feat considered one of the greatest debuts in cricket history.
Test Career Highlights
Debut Series vs West Indies (1971)
- 774 runs in 4 matches, with 4 centuries.
- Helped India secure their first-ever series win in the West Indies.
Batting Greatness in 1970s & 1980s
- Became the first cricketer to score 10,000 Test runs.
- Scored 34 Test centuries, a world record at the time.
- Known for his resilience against the fastest bowlers of his era like Michael Holding, Andy Roberts, and Malcolm Marshall.
- Played many match-saving and match-winning knocks for India.
ODI Career Highlights
- Played 108 ODIs, scoring over 3,000 runs.
- Represented India in the 1975, 1979, 1983, and 1987 Cricket World Cups.
- Though not as dominant in ODIs as in Tests, he was part of India’s cricketing transformation.
Records & Milestones
- First batsman to reach 10,000 Test runs.
- 34 Test centuries – a world record until broken by Sachin Tendulkar.
- Most runs by an Indian in a debut series (774 runs).
- Member of India’s 1983 World Cup-winning squad.
Captaincy & Leadership
Gavaskar captained India in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Under his leadership, India registered some historic victories, though his captaincy was sometimes considered defensive.
Retirement & Post-Cricket Career
Sunil Gavaskar retired from international cricket in 1987. Post-retirement, he became a cricket commentator, columnist, and analyst, admired for his sharp insights.
Awards & Honors
- Padma Bhushan (1980).
- Padma Shri (1975).
- Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1980).
- Numerous awards for his contribution to cricket.
Beyond Cricket
Apart from commentary, Gavaskar has authored books like “Sunny Days” and “Idols”, sharing his experiences and cricketing wisdom. He is also active in cricket administration and philanthropy.
Personal Life
Sunil Gavaskar is married to Marshneill Gavaskar. They have a son, Rohan Gavaskar, who also played international cricket for India.
Legacy & Inspiration
Sunil Gavaskar is hailed as the man who gave India confidence against world-class pace bowling. His fearless batting inspired future generations, including Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Virat Kohli. He remains an enduring figure in Indian cricket history.
FAQs about Sunil Gavaskar
Q1: When was Sunil Gavaskar born?
A: 10 July 1949, in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Q2: What is Sunil Gavaskar famous for?
A: Being the first cricketer to score 10,000 Test runs and for his fearless batting against fast bowlers.
Q3: How many Test centuries did Gavaskar score?
A: 34 Test centuries.
Q4: Was Gavaskar part of the 1983 World Cup?
A: Yes, he was a member of the 1983 World Cup-winning team.
Q5: Who is Sunil Gavaskar’s son?
A: Rohan Gavaskar, who played ODIs for India.
Q6: What awards has Sunil Gavaskar received?
A: Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1980).
