During days of uncovered pitches and inadequate protective gear, this brave stumper stood up to the wickets to Mohammed Nissar, considered one of the fastest bowlers to have played for India.
Dr. S.V. Thiruvenkata Chari is among the wicket-keeping path-finders in the country. September 22, 2014, marks the birth centenary of this intrepid and skilful cricketer.
In the period he played, opportunities were few and far between.
However, S.V.T. Chari figured in an unofficial ‘Test’ of the 1935-36 series against Jack Ryder’s Australian team in Madras. India won this fourth and final ‘Test’ of the series by 33 runs.
A look at S.V.T. Chari’s wicketkeeping record in 16 first class matches — 10 catches and 23 stumpings — indicates he had fast hands. He was known for his quick stumpings.
He later gave up his cricketing career to practise surgery.
S.V.T. Chari passed away, aged 72, in Madras (now Chennai) in 1987. He will be remembered as a fearless wicketkeeper.
