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Naoomal Jeoomal

Naoomal Jeoomal Makhija (1904–1980) was an Indian cricketer who played in the early years of India's Test cricket history. He was a right-handed batsman and occasional right-arm leg-break bowler, and was among the small group of cricketers who represented India in its inaugural Test series in the 1930s.

Key facts

Full name Naoomal Jeoomal Makhija
Born 1904
Died 1980
Nationality Indian
Role Batsman
Batting Right-handed
Bowling Right-arm leg break
Format Test cricket, first-class cricket

Background

Naoomal Jeoomal belonged to the generation of Indian cricketers who developed their game in the era preceding India's entry into Test cricket in 1932. He came up through domestic cricket in colonial India, when the sport was organised largely along the lines of the Bombay tournaments and regional associations.

Career

Naoomal was selected for the Indian side during the formative period of Indian Test cricket, which began with the country's first Test match against England at Lord's in June 1932. As a top-order batsman, he was part of the limited pool of players from whom early Indian touring and home Test sides were drawn.

Beyond his international appearances, he had a long association with first-class cricket in India and continued to be involved with the game in the years following his playing career.

Significance

As one of the cricketers from India's earliest Test-playing years, Naoomal Jeoomal occupies a place in the founding history of Indian international cricket. Players from this period are remembered for establishing India as a recognised Test-playing nation within the framework of the Imperial Cricket Conference.

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