An enigma of an opening batsman, he had periods of success interspersed with those of failure. He scored a century on his first-class debut in 1946-47, and twice reached three figures in his maiden Test series against England in 1951-52. The following summer, however, he struggled in England and suffered five ducks in his seven Test innings, including a pair at Old Trafford.. He recovered from this to score runs against the West Indies at home, and in New Zealand in 1954-55, soon after acquiring glasses, he partnered Vinoo Mankad in a world-record opening stand of 413. Pankajda was a careful player, better known for his solid defense, though he could attack when the mood struck him. He captained India in one Test, in England in 1959. Unfortunately, India lost that Test (and the series, 5-0). His son, Pranab, a chip off the old block, played two Tests.
Uday Rajan