This cricketer used to hit sixes on girl's demand, acted in Bollywood movies, was called prince of Indian cricket...

Salim Durani came as a welcome shift at an era when test cricket was frequently defined by sluggish, defensive methods and batting was considered as a test of stamina. While the Gillette Cup and John Player League were added to provide interest to the game, Durani stood out as a superb player. Affectionately known as "Prince Salim" by his followers, he was a major member of Indian cricket's "glamour corps," which also included Abbas Ali Baig, M.L. Jaisimha, and Mansur Ali Khan of Pataudi, long before IPL after-parties.

For those unfamiliar with cricket history beyond current luminaries like as Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Vangipurapu Laxman, and Sourav Ganguly, the name Salim Durani may not be recognized. However, Gulu Ezekiel's biography reveals a player who, despite his limited appearances, had a huge impact on Indian cricket in the 1960s. 

Salim Durani's powerful hitting and left-arm spin bowling helped India win a lot of cricket matches. He was instrumental in India's maiden Test victory in the West Indies in 1971, bowling an outstanding session that rapidly eliminated players such as Clive Lloyd and Garry Sobers. India defeated Spain by seven wickets in the Port of Spain Test, with Durani surrendering only 21 runs in 17 overs.

The Kabul-born cricketer was well-known for his sluggish left-arm orthodox bowling and batting abilities. In 29 Tests, he grabbed 75 wickets, including three five-wicket hauls. He resided in Jamnagar, Gujarat, alongside his younger brother, Jahangir Durani.

Durani was one of the first Indian cricketers to promote companies, and his compelling personality and excellent looks helped him establish recognition among the general population. This resulted in offers in the film business. In 1969, he made his acting debut in the film 'Ek Masoom', alongside Tanuja. The film, directed by Khalid Akhtar, also starred Helen, Prem Chopra, Jagdeep, and Abhi Bhattacharya. He was part of one more film in 1973, when his international cricket career was coming to an end. He appeared opposite Parveen Babi in the film 'Charitra'.

While today's cricketers have access to head coaches, batting, bowling, and fielding experts, net bowlers, physical trainers, and cutting-edge technology, those who played under Durani's reign had significantly less opportunities. Modern safety gear, ball-tracking technology, and the exhilaration of millions applauding in stadiums across the world are all new advancements that were not there during Durani's reign.

Durani was frequently referred to be "moody" throughout his early career. It may seem strange to characterize an international cricketer in this way now, but his performances for India were commonly attributed to his emotional condition.

Salim Durrani died on April 2, 2023, at his home in Jamnagar from age-related health difficulties.

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