India's Oldest Living Test Cricketer Title Transfers to Chandu Patankar After CD Gopinath's Demise
The cricketing world mourned the passing of 96-year-old CD Gopinath in Chennai on Thursday, a loss that has shifted a historic title within Indian cricket. Chingleput Doraikannu (CD) Gopinath, who represented India in eight Tests between 1951 and 1960, was previously the nation's oldest living Test cricketer. Hailing from Chennai, formerly known as Madras, Gopinath held the distinction of being the last surviving member of India's first-ever Test victory, achieved against England at Madras in 1952.
Chandu Patankar Steps into the Spotlight at Age 95
With Gopinath's demise, the mantle of India's oldest living Test cricketer now falls to Chandu Patankar, a former wicketkeeper-batter who played for India, Mumbai, and Maharashtra. At 95 years and 136 days old, Patankar confirmed his new status after learning of Gopinath's passing. "Yes, someone gave me the sad news of Gopinath's demise today. A friend informed me that I'm now the oldest-living Indian Test cricketer," Patankar told Times of India.
When asked about his longevity and vitality in his 90s, Patankar attributed it to divine grace, stating, "It's God's grace. I do not make any extra effort." His humble outlook belies a life deeply intertwined with cricket, both on and off the field.
A Brief but Memorable Test Career
Chandu Patankar's Test career, though brief, left an indelible mark. He played a single Test for India against New Zealand in 1955, specifically the New Year's Test at Eden Gardens in Kolkata in December of that year. In that match, he scored 13 runs in the first innings and remained unbeaten with 1 run in the second. Behind the stumps, Patankar demonstrated his skills by taking three catches and effecting one stumping in the first innings.
However, his Test appearance was cut short after he dropped a difficult skier, leading to his replacement by Naren Tamhane for the fifth Test at Madras' Corporation Stadium. Patankar had initially been called up to replace the injured Tamhane for the fourth game of the five-match series against Harry Cave's New Zealand in the 1955–56 season. This sequence of events places him among a select group of 51 cricketers—including six wicketkeepers—who have featured in just one Test for India.
Life Beyond the Cricket Field
Born in Pen, Raigad district of Maharashtra, Patankar is a Parel resident who pursued higher education at Bombay University, earning an MSc degree. His first-class cricket career spanned from 1950 to 1966, primarily with Bombay, before he switched to Maharashtra for his final season in 1966–67.
Following his retirement from active play, Patankar remained deeply involved in cricket administration, serving as the secretary of the Cricket Club of India for several years. Those close to him describe him as a "fine human being," a testament to his character off the field.
Patankar's commitment to cricket continues to this day. In October 2022, he made a point to visit the Wankhede Stadium premises to vote in the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) elections. More recently, in January 2025, he attended the Wankhede Stadium's 50th anniversary celebration, showcasing his enduring connection to the sport.
The passing of CD Gopinath not only marks the end of an era but also highlights the rich legacy of India's early cricketers. As Chandu Patankar assumes the title of oldest living Test cricketer, his story serves as a reminder of the dedication and passion that define the sport's history in the country.
