Cottari Kanakaiya Nayudualso known as C. K. Nayadu or just ‘CK’ was the first Indian skipper who showed his early excellence in the game. He became a part of his school cricket team at the age of seven. He later managed to make an appearance in first-class cricket in the year 1916 when he was picked for the Bombay Triangular for the Hindus against the Europeans.
He was invited to Indore by the ruler of Holkar and was made a Captain in his army for both the land and air troop. Later he was awarded with the honor of a Colonel in Holkar’s Army.
Nayudu scored massively during his first-class span of almost 48 years. He represented Andhra, Central India, Central Provinces and Berar, Hindus, Holkar, Hyderabad (India), Rajputana, United Province during this time and scored runs at a blistering average of 35.94 in 207 matches that he played.
The mammoth 11825 runs included 26 tons and 58 half centuries which were a clear proof that he was given the command to lead India in their first ever Test match.
Apart from this willow striking ability, Nayudu was also a handy spinner. He claimed 411 scalps during his domestic reign with a best figures of 7 for 44.
He made his last appearance in the Ranji Trophy in 1956-57, aged 62, scoring 52 in his last innings for Uttar Pradesh.
While batting in a tour match at Edgbaston; he hit a six crossing the River Rea which was the boundary between Warwickshire and Worcestershire. Though, his international career didn’t last for a long time but it was sufficient to make a mark on the highest arena. In his seven matches, Nayudu scored 350 runs including two half centuries and dismissed 9 batsmen. He was bestowed with the award of Padma Bhushan.
