CD Gopinath, a former Test cricketer for India and a distinguished figure in the sport, has died in Chennai at the age of 96. He was the last remaining player from the team that achieved India’s first Test victory. Gopinath’s death was confirmed on April 9, 2026. His passing marks the loss of one of the country’s most notable cricketing personalities as he was also recognized as India’s oldest Test player and the second oldest in the world, following 97-year-old Neil Harvey of Australia.

Tributes Pour in from the Cricketing Community

The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) expressed their condolences through a statement shared on social media. They acknowledged Gopinath’s contributions to the sport, calling him a true pioneer of Indian cricket. The TNCA emphasized his legacy, which they stated would remain a significant part of cricket history.

A Legacy Built on Remarkable Achievements

Born on March 1, 1930, in Chennai, Gopinath’s cricketing career boasts impressive statistics. He played a total of 83 First Class matches, amassing 4,259 runs across 119 innings with an average of 42.16. His accomplishments include nine centuries and 23 half-centuries, with his highest score in first-class cricket reaching 234 runs. These achievements highlight his proficiency and versatility as a right-handed batsman.

A Milestone Test Debut and Historic Matches

Gopinath made his Test debut against England at the Brabourne Stadium in 1951. He made an immediate impact in that match, scoring an unbeaten 50 in his first innings and adding 42 in the second, helping to secure a draw. Notably, Gopinath was part of the landmark fifth Test of that series, wherein India achieved its first-ever Test victory. In that match, he contributed 35 runs, further showcasing his capabilities on the field. Over the course of his Test career, he played eight matches and tallied 242 runs at an average of 22, including one half-century.

India’s Oldest Living Test Cricketer After His Passing

With the passing of CD Gopinath, the title of India’s oldest living Test cricketer now goes to 95-year-old Chandrakant Patankar, who played his sole Test match against New Zealand at Eden Gardens in 1956. This transition marks a significant moment in Indian cricket history, as the sport celebrates the legacy left by players like Gopinath who have paved the way for future generations.

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