Pankaj Roy, an enigmatic opening batsman from India, had a career that consisted of both soaring success and frustrating failures. Born on March 31, 1928, in Barisal, Bengal (now Bangladesh), Pankaj Roy left an indelible mark on Indian cricket during his playing years.
Roy made an impactful entry into the world of cricket when he scored a century on his first-class debut in the 1946-47 season. This promising start showcased his immense talent and potential. His exceptional skills earned him a spot in the national team, and he went on to make his Test debut against England in 1951-52.
During his maiden Test series against England, Roy displayed his brilliance with the bat. He scored two centuries, leaving a lasting impression on cricket enthusiasts. However, his next venture in England turned out to be challenging, as he encountered a rough patch. In the 1952 Test series, he faced five ducks in seven innings, including a disappointing pair at Old Trafford. Despite this setback, Roy showed great resilience and made an impressive comeback.
Following his struggles in England, Roy regained his form and delivered commendable performances against the West Indies at home. In the 1954-55 tour of New Zealand, he achieved a significant milestone in his career. Equipped with glasses to aid his visibility, Roy joined forces with Vinoo Mankad, and together they forged a remarkable world-record opening partnership of 413 runs. This exceptional achievement solidified Roy’s position as one of the finest opening batsmen of his time.
Known for his cautious approach and solid defensive skills, Roy was often hailed for his ability to weather challenging conditions. While he primarily focused on building a strong defense, he had the capacity to unleash attacking strokes when the occasion demanded. His remarkable consistency and his ability to play the long innings made him a highly respected cricketer.
Roy’s captaincy skills were also recognized, as he led the Indian team in a solitary Test match during the 1959 tour of England. Unfortunately, India faced defeat in that Test, which was followed by a whitewash series loss. Despite this setback, Roy’s leadership qualities and dedication to the sport remained unquestioned.
Following his retirement from cricket, Roy’s legacy continued through his son Pranab, who also represented the national team. Pranab Roy, following in his father’s footsteps, played two Tests, thereby continuing the family’s association with the gentlemen’s game.
Pankaj Roy’s contributions to Indian cricket cannot be underestimated. He played an integral role in shaping the country’s cricket landscape, showcasing immense talent, and achieving remarkable milestones throughout his career. His solid defense, occasional attacking prowess, and leadership abilities left a lasting impact on the game. Pankaj Roy will forever be remembered as a symbol of resilience and determination, making him an immortal figure in the annals of Indian cricket history.
