Thirumalai Sekhar

A tall and well-built fast-medium bowler, Sekhar at his peak in the early 80s, was probably the fastest bowler in the country. But not having the benefit of a really good coach, his line and length could be erratic. He captured nine wickets in an innings against Kerala in the Ranji Trophy in 1982-83 and this, followed by some good performances in the Duleep Trophy brought him into national reckoning. Flown as a replacement for the injured Madan Lal, Sekhar played two Tests in Pakistan in 1982-83. He bowled with some hostility but had little luck and was, rather harshly, not considered for any more Tests. He played in a few one day internationals, the last against England in 1985 and briefly came back into the reckoning for the tour of West Indies in 1989 when he was called to attend the camp at Madras. By now however he had joined the MRF Pace Foundation, where he has been chief coach for several years, working with leading pace bowlers from across the world. He also served as the South Zone representative on the selection committee. He was later appointed manager of the Delhi Daredevils in the IPL.
Partab Ramchand (April 2008)