Ranjitsinhji

Ranjitsinhji Vasdevji (1872–1933), also known as Ranjitsinhji of Nawanagar, was a prominent Indian cricketer and sports administrator who played a pivotal role in the early development of cricket in India. Born into the princely house of Nawanagar (now part of Gujarat), he was the son of Maharaja Pratikshinsinhji and a distant relative of the British royal family through his mother, Princess Mary of Teck, who later became Queen Mary of the United Kingdom.

Ranjitsinhji was educated in England, where he became a skilled cricketer while studying at the Royal Grammar School, Worcester, and later at Oxford University. He made his debut for Gloucestershire in 1893 and went on to represent the county for over a decade, becoming one of the leading batsmen of his era. His elegant left-handed batting and occasional medium-pace bowling made him a standout figure in English cricket. He also played for the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and captained the team in several tours.

In 1902, Ranjitsinhji returned to India and became the first Indian to captain the Indian cricket team in its first official match against an English touring side. His leadership and playing skills helped popularize cricket in India, and he continued to promote the sport through his influence and patronage. He was instrumental in organizing the first-ever Indian cricket team tour of England in 1911, which included players like Ranjitsinhji himself, Mohinder Singh, and Kumar Shri Ram.

Beyond cricket, Ranjitsinhji was involved in various philanthropic and administrative activities. He served as the president of the Indian Cricket Conference (precursor to the Board of Control for Cricket in India) and supported educational and cultural initiatives in his native state. His contributions to cricket and sports administration earned him recognition both in India and abroad.

Ranjitsinhji passed away in 1933 at the age of 61, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential figures in the early history of Indian cricket. His efforts laid the foundation for the growth of the sport in the country and inspired future generations of Indian cricketers.