Noel Arthur David, an offspinning allrounder from India, is a cricketer known for his middling ability and occasional flashes of brilliance. Born on November 2, 1966, in Hyderabad, David had a brief but notable international career.
In 1997, David received an unexpected call to join the Indian team as a replacement for the injured Javagal Srinath during a tour of the Caribbean. The decision to select David over other potential candidates was considered muddle-headed by many, and he mostly remained a passenger for the Test series.
However, it was during the subsequent One-Day International (ODI) matches that David truly made his mark. Making his ODI debut against the West Indies in Port-of-Spain, he impressed immediately with his nagging off breaks, claiming figures of 3 for 21. Though his contributions with bat and ball were modest overall, it was his outstanding fielding skills that drew attention. As a fielder, David displayed remarkable agility and brilliance, making diving stops and taking breathtaking catches.
David’s promising start earned him a spot in the squad for the Asia Cup in Colombo later that year. However, his opportunities were limited, as he played in only one game before being dropped from the team. Unfortunately, that proved to be the end of his international career, as his services were no longer required by the selectors.
Despite his limited success on the international stage, David had a memorable moment in domestic cricket. In the 1993-94 Ranji Trophy season, playing for Hyderabad against Andhra, he achieved a remarkable feat. Batting in the first innings, David scored an unbeaten 207 runs, contributing significantly to Hyderabad’s mammoth total of 944 for 6 declared. This score remains the highest in Ranji Trophy history to this day, showcasing David’s batting prowess.
After retiring from cricket, David decided to emigrate to the United States, seeking new opportunities and challenges. Though his international career was short-lived, David’s memorable performances and exceptional fielding skills left a lasting impression on those who witnessed his abilities.
While his cricketing journey may not have followed a path of extended success or recognition, Noel David’s name remains etched in the memories of cricket enthusiasts who appreciate the occasional brilliance and extraordinary fielding skills he displayed during his brief international tenure.
