Vijay Hazare Biography: Life Story, Career, Records, Family & Achievements
Introduction
Vijay Samuel Hazare was one of India’s greatest cricketers of the pre- and post-independence era. A stylish right-handed batsman and useful medium-pace bowler, Hazare became India’s first Test captain to secure a victory (against England in 1952). His consistency, resilience, and leadership helped lay the foundation of Indian cricket during its formative years on the international stage.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Vijay Samuel Hazare
- Date of Birth: 11 March 1915
- Birthplace: Sangli, Maharashtra, India
- Died: 18 December 2004 (aged 89), Vadodara, Gujarat, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Pisces
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 70 kg
- Hair Color: Black (later grey)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Hazare was born into a Christian family in Sangli, Maharashtra. Despite limited resources, his cricketing talent shone through in local matches. He balanced odd jobs with his cricket until he established himself in first-class cricket.
Domestic Career
- Represented Maharashtra and Baroda in domestic cricket.
- Scored prolifically in Ranji Trophy, including multiple centuries.
- Led Baroda to Ranji Trophy titles, establishing himself as a match-winner.
- His legacy in domestic cricket is so great that the Vijay Hazare Trophy (India’s premier domestic one-day tournament) was named in his honor.
International Career
Debut Matches
- Test Debut: 22 June 1946 vs England.
Career Highlights
- Played 30 Tests, scoring 2,192 runs at an average of 47.65, including 7 centuries and 9 fifties.
- Scored back-to-back centuries against Don Bradman’s Australia in 1948, earning worldwide respect.
- India’s first Test captain to record a victory – against England at Madras (now Chennai) in 1952.
Records & Achievements
- First Indian to score a triple century in first-class cricket (316*).
- Scored over 18,000 runs in first-class cricket, with 60 centuries.
- Captained India to its first-ever Test win.
- Awarded the Padma Shri (1960).
Personal Life
Vijay Hazare came from a humble background and remained grounded throughout his career. Despite his fame, he was known for his simplicity and soft-spoken personality.
Retirement & Later Life
- Retired from international cricket in 1953.
- Continued to mentor young cricketers and remained associated with cricket administration.
- Passed away in Vadodara on 18 December 2004, leaving behind a rich cricketing legacy.
Legacy
Vijay Hazare is remembered as a pioneer of Indian batting and leadership. His achievements gave India its first taste of success in Test cricket. The Vijay Hazare Trophy, named after him, continues to honor his contribution to Indian cricket. He remains an inspiration for cricketers who value determination, humility, and discipline.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Vijay Hazare famous?
He is famous for being India’s first Test-winning captain and a prolific batsman of his era.
Q2: How many centuries did Hazare score in Tests?
He scored 7 Test centuries in 30 matches.
Q3: Which domestic trophy is named after him?
The Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier one-day domestic tournament.
Q4: Against which team did Hazare score back-to-back centuries?
Against Australia in 1948, even when Don Bradman’s team dominated.
Q5: Did Hazare receive any national awards?
Yes, he was awarded the Padma Shri in 1960.
