ML Jaisimha was a graceful batsman and a part-time leg-spinner, who played for India for close to 12 years. With his stylish batting, he inspired quite a few young Hyderabadi cricketers. One of them was none other Mohammad Azharuddin. When he essayed those drives, the lovely wrist-work was a sight to behold. He played both as an opener and on occasions, slotted into the middle-order as well.

Jaisimha made his Test debut against England at the age of just 20 at Lord's in 1959. His first century came against England in 1961 in Delhi. In 1964, when England again arrived on the shores of India, Jaisimha was at his peak. In particular, the fans of that era reminisce his unruffled elegance when he made 129 in Kolkata. It turned out to be his highest Tet score.

One of his greatest moments of his career came when he compiled those supreme knocks of 74 and 101 at the Gabba in 1968. Jaisimha, who was called in as a replacement, almost took India to a glorious win, while chasing down a monstrous target of 395, before they fell short by 39 runs. However, inconsistent form dogged him and Jaisimha's career ended with the tour of West Indies in 1971. Even after retiring from the game, he served as the manager of the Indian unit. He passed away at the age of 60 in 1999.

By Bharath Ramaraj