Indian Cricket Mourning, Veteran Cricketer C. D. Gopinath Death

Chennai (The Uttam Hindu): A wave of grief has swept through Indian cricket amid IPL 2026, as one of the country’s oldest cricketers, C. D. Gopinath, passed away in Chennai on April 9, 2026, at the age of 96. With his demise, a golden chapter of Indian cricket history has come to an end.

Gopinath was the last surviving member of the historic Indian team that secured the nation’s first-ever Test victory against England in 1952. Following his passing, Chandrakant Patankar is now the oldest living Indian Test cricketer.

Distinguished Cricket Career

Born on March 1, 1930, in Chennai, Gopinath made his Test debut against England in 1951 at the Brabourne Stadium. He played 8 Test matches, scoring 242 runs in 12 innings at an average of 20.17, with a highest score of an unbeaten 50.

His first-class career was particularly impressive. Representing Madras (now Tamil Nadu), he scored 4,259 runs in 83 matches at an average of 42.16, showcasing his consistency and class.

Historic Contributions

Gopinath played a key role in Madras’ maiden Ranji Trophy title win in 1954-55, scoring a crucial century in the final. He was also part of India’s landmark Test win against England in Chennai in 1952, contributing an important 35 runs in the lower order.

Impressive Debut

He made an immediate impact in his debut Test innings, scoring an unbeaten 50—his highest Test score. In the second innings, he added 42 runs, helping India secure a draw.

Cricket World in Mourning

His passing has left the cricketing fraternity in deep sorrow. Fans and former players remember him as a calm, dedicated, and inspiring figure who contributed significantly to Indian cricket.