The Forgotten Sons

Book excerpt: Do you know that in the years before World War II, India had a fast bowler who sent shivers down the spine of opposition batsmen? Or that an Indian wicket keeper once sledged none other than the great Sir Donald Bradman when he came out to bat? You would be amazed to know that once, a lieutenant colonel of the Indian Army drove down nearly 500 km from his post in Dharamshala to lead the Indian team for a test match in Delhi. Or this other time, when India’s famed spin trio was unable to make a breakthrough, the vice-captain suggested a left arm pacer to bowl spin and the latter ended up taking five wickets! There was an Indian spinner who once bowled 131 consecutive dot balls. Another tail-ender once had his jaw fractured while batting but refused to come off in the interest of the team. These and many such fantastic stories embellish the glorious journey of Indian cricket. And like any story, the tale of Indian cricket also has magnificent characters – many of whom you know about. But also, many whose tales are less told and have been lost in the sands of time. Read on for more such fascinating tales and know about The Forgotten Sons of Indian cricket.