Farokh Maneksha Engineer was an exceptional cricket player who represented India and became one of the most renowned wicketkeepers and batsmen of his era. Born on February 25, 1938, in Bombay, India, Engineer’s career spanned from 1959 to 1975. His talent, athleticism, and style made him an integral contributor to the Indian cricket team.
Engineer’s remarkable reflexes and solid build made him a formidable wicketkeeper and allowed him to face the renowned spin quartet of Bedi, Prasanna, Chandrasekhar, and Venkataraghavan with unmatched skill. Standing behind the stumps, he displayed incredible agility and precision, earning him the recognition as one of the best wicketkeepers of his time.
Not only was Engineer exceptional behind the stumps, but he also showcased his prowess with the bat. A flamboyant and aggressive batsman, he possessed the ability to score quick runs and dominate the opposition. One of his most memorable innings came during the 1966-67 series against West Indies in Madras. In a stunning display of skill and power, Engineer scored a blazing 94 runs before lunch on the first day, facing formidable bowlers like Hall, Griffith, Sobers, and Gibbs.
Engineer’s success on the international stage led to him being selected as the first-choice wicketkeeper for the Rest of the World XI series, played in England and Australia in the early 1970s. This selection solidified his reputation as one of the finest wicketkeepers across the cricketing world.
However, Engineer didn’t confine himself to representing only India. He eventually made England his home and served the Lancashire cricket team with distinction. His dedication and skill propelled Lancashire to numerous victories, and his contributions to the team remain etched in the annals of English cricket history.
Beyond his tremendous cricketing abilities, Engineer also possessed striking features and rugged good looks, making him a sought-after model. Often compared to the likes of Keith Miller and Denis Compton, he became an iconic face in the world of cricket, representing Brylcreem.
Farokh Engineer’s career statistics showcase his remarkable contributions to the game. He played 46 Tests for India, scoring 2611 runs at an average of 31.08. With the gloves, he took 66 catches and completed 16 stumpings. In first-class cricket, he amassed over 12,000 runs.
After retiring from cricket, Engineer dedicated his time to various roles within the sport. He worked as a cricket commentator, providing valuable insight and analysis to the audience. His authoritative voice and expert opinions added depth to the coverage of numerous matches.
Today, Farokh Engineer’s legacy lives on as one of India’s most talented wicketkeepers and batsmen. His agility, reflexes, and charming personality continue to inspire aspiring cricketers across the globe. From his memorable innings against West Indies to his distinguished career in England, Engineer’s impact on the game remains indelible.
