Noel David

A prolific bowling all-rounder, Noel David was India’s answer to Jonty Rhodes. He was lightning on the field and his off-spinning ability rattled the best batsmen in the world.

David was picked for the Indian side which toured the West Indies, in 1997-98. And, taking everyone by surprise, the Hyderabadi had a memorable outing in the West Indies. A virtual passenger until the Test series was over, David sprang into action in the ODI’s, with his nagging off-breaks claiming 3 for 21 on debut at the Caribbean Islands.

Despite spectacular performances on the field, luck wasn't on David’s side. While Indian cricket grew leaps and bounds, David faded out of the scene. Featuring in just four matches at the international level, he struck just 4 wickets and after a short stint at the top level for four months, he wasn’t selected to play. 

David retired from all forms of international cricket in June 2005 and immigrated to the United States thereafter. David, known for his fielding finesse and is now the main coach of the Hyderabad cricket Academy team, still feels honoured to be compared to Jonty Rhodes.

(As of April 2021)