Hemu Adhikari
Hemchandra Ramachandra “Hemu” Adhikari (July 31, 1919 – October 25, 2003) was an Indian cricketer who played for India and later coached the national team. Born in Pune, he later died in Mumbai at the age of 84. A right-handed batsman and occasional leg-spin bowler, Adhikari’s early first-class career began as a teenager, but World War II and his army service interrupted his playing days.
He made his Test debut for India on November 28, 1947, against Australia, and played his last Test on February 11, 1959, against the West Indies. He captained India in one Test near his fortieth birthday, scoring 63 and 40 and taking three wickets in a drawn match.
Adhikari was a strong batsman in domestic cricket, with a first-class batting average of about 41.7 and a top score of 230 not out. In Test cricket, his top score was 114 not out, and he also took a few wickets. He is remembered for a 109-run last-wicket partnership with Ghulam Ahmed against Pakistan.
After retiring as a player, Adhikari became a coach and helped shape India’s rise on the world stage. He played a key role in India’s first England series win in 1971 and mentored stars like Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, and Ravi Shastri. His military background led to a disciplined coaching style, praised by players such as Bapu Nadkarni.
In 1998, he received the C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, India’s top honor for a former player. He also mentored other coaches, including M. R. Baig. Adhikari’s legacy includes his quiet presence and influence on Indian cricket’s confidence and development.
This page was last edited on 3 February 2026, at 15:58 (CET).