In a momentous ceremony during the Naman Awards on Tuesday, the distinguished Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award was conferred upon former Indian cricketers Ravi Shastri and Farokh Engineer. The prestigious award presentation was carried out by the president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Roger Binny, and BCCI Secretary Jay Shah.
Ravi Shastri, renowned for his illustrious international cricket career spanning from 1981 to 1992, emerged as a highly valuable all-rounder. Displaying versatility, Shastri played various roles for his team and excelled in challenging situations. His commendable Test record includes 80 Test matches where he accumulated 3,830 runs at an average of 35.79. Shastri showcased proficiency in both opening and middle-order batting, notching up 11 centuries and 12 fifties in his 121 innings, achieving a highest individual score of 206. As an all-rounder, he proved his bowling prowess by taking 151 wickets, with a best bowling performance of 5/75.
A defining moment in Shastri’s career came in 1983 when he played a crucial role in India’s historic 50-over World Cup win. He contributed both with the bat and ball, exemplifying his all-round skills. Another significant achievement was in 1985 when Shastri played a key role in India’s victory at the World Championship of Cricket, earning him the ‘Man of the Tournament’ award.
After retiring from international cricket in 1992, Shastri became a prominent commentator known for his authoritative voice, enthusiasm, and in-depth knowledge of the game. His calls during India’s victorious moments in the T20 World Cup 2007 and ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 remain etched in the minds of cricket enthusiasts.
Farokh Engineer, known for his craftsmanship with the bat and agility behind the stumps, received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to Indian cricket. Playing 46 Test matches for India, Engineer amassed 2611 runs, including two centuries and 16 half-centuries. His memorable innings against the West Indies in 1966-67, scoring 94 before lunch on the first day, showcased his batting prowess against iconic pacers.
The Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award adds to the list of accolades for these cricketing legends, recognizing their significant impact on Indian cricket and their enduring contributions to the sport. Shastri and Engineer join the esteemed company of past award winners, including cricketing luminaries like Lala Amarnath, Syed Mushtaq Ali, Vijay Hazare, Bishan Singh Bedi, and Sunil Gavaskar.
Dhairya Saraswat 
Aastha Kumari