|
|
Born: May 22, 1940, Bangalore, Karnataka
Major teams: India, Karnataka, Mysore
Batting style: Right-hand bat
Bowling style: Right-arm offbreak
Achievements:One of the famed Indian Spin Quartet; took 25 wickets in four Tests to help India record its first overseas series victory (against New Zealand in 1967-68);
Erapalli Prasanna was a vital component of the dreaded Indian spin quartet of the 1970s. Prasanna made his debut in 1960-61 against West Indies and after playing a few Tests took a four-year sabbatical from the game to complete his engineering degree.
Prasanna was recalled to the Indian side in 1966 against the West Indies, at home. In that series he teamed up with Chandrasekhar and the debutant Bishan Bedi, to torment the mighty West Indies lineup. Prasana blossomed under the guidance of Tiger Pataudi and was at his devastating best during India's 8-Test tour to Australia and New Zealand. In New Zealand Prasanna played a crucial role in India's first overseas win.
During the West Indies tour in 1970-71 under Ajit Wadekar, an unfortunate injury to Prasanna paved the way for Venkataraghavan's inclusion to the Indian team and gradually Prasanna found himself being dropped in favor of the latter. Even though the duo possessed vastly contrasting styles, the team couldn't afford the luxury of four spinners and Venky's batting and fielding skills ensured he stayed ahead in the race.
Of shortish height, Erapali Prasanna had complete mastery over flight and he lured batsmen to their doom with his enticing trajectory.
