Woorkeri Venkat Raman, popularly known as W.V. Raman, is a former Indian cricket player who made a name for himself with his exceptional batting skills. Born on January 9, 1965, in Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu, Raman exhibited a natural talent for the sport from an early age.
Raman began his cricketing journey as a left-arm spinner, baffling batsmen with his deceptive variations and ability to read the game. He made his Test debut for India against the formidable West Indies in 1988. Much to the delight of the Indian fans, Raman made an immediate impact by picking up the wicket of legendary West Indian fast bowler Courtney Walsh in his very first over.
However, it was with the bat that Raman truly shone. In the 1988-89 season, he showcased his batting prowess by scoring a remarkable 313 runs for Tamil Nadu against Goa. This extraordinary achievement earned him accolades and helped him set a new record for the most runs in a season, surpassing Rusi Modi’s long-standing record.
Raman’s breakthrough performances caught the attention of the national selectors, and he was soon drafted into the Indian cricket team. He was primarily tasked with the opening position, as was often the case with many batsmen of his era. Despite facing stiff competition, Raman managed to hold his own and played some vital innings for his country.
In his second innings of Test cricket, batting at No. 3, Raman contributed a valuable 83 runs against the West Indies. Unfortunately, his debut was overshadowed by Narendra Hirwani’s exceptional bowling figures of 16-136. Raman’s international career, however, failed to take off as expected, and he struggled to maintain consistency at the highest level.
Raman’s highest Test score came against New Zealand in 1990 when he scored a well-composed 96. He further showcased his ability to perform under pressure during India’s Friendship Tour of South Africa in 1992-93, where he became the first Indian to score a century against the Proteas in an ODI.
Despite his undeniable talent, Raman’s international career was cut short prematurely. In 1993, he was overlooked in favor of Vinod Kambli during England’s tour of India, signaling the end of his time in the national team. However, he continued to excel in domestic cricket, showcasing his exceptional cricketing acumen in various matches.
After retiring from professional cricket, Raman took up coaching and further expanded his knowledge of the game. He earned the highest coaching qualifications and became the coach of the Tamil Nadu cricket team. Raman’s astute understanding of cricket strategy earned him recognition as one of the shrewdest thinkers in the game.
Today, Woorkeri Venkat Raman remains an influential figure in Indian cricket, known for his contributions both as a player and as a coach. His dedication, perseverance, and passion for the game continue to inspire upcoming cricketers in India, leaving a lasting legacy in the country’s cricketing history.
