Roger Binny

Roger Binny was a flamboyant all-rounder who plied his trade for India in both limited overs cricket and the longer format. Athletic, energetic, enthusiastic and aggressive; the Karnataka man was a vital cog in the wheel for the team back then. He has had numerous memorable moments all through his career with the one to stand out being that of the highest wicket taker in the 1983 World Cup.

From start to finish, Binny kept taking vital wickets and ended up with a total of 18 in the World Cup of 1983 which was a record then. In the same year, he produced more memorable performances like his 83 in a record 155 run, seventh wicket partnership with Madan Lal against Pakistan to bail India out of trouble. At Ahmedabad, the same year he went on to dismiss Greenidge, Haynes and Richards to cause a stir in the formidable West Indian batting line-up. Binny was a floater and could be accommodated anywhere in the line-up. His commitment and ability on the field as well made him a popular player with the fans. His versatility was well employed by the team.

His swing bowling ability was well suited for conditions in countries like England and he backed this fact up by taking 7 wickets in a match at Headingley. His best Test bowling figures though of 6 for 56 came against arch rivals Pakistan at Calcutta in 1987. Binny played his last match for India in October 1987 against Australia which India lost by just 1 run. Following this, Binny took to coaching and in 2000, coached the Indian U19 team and won the World Cup with them in Sri Lanka in January 2000.