Dilip Vengsarkar, fondly known as “The Colonel,” is one of India’s most celebrated cricketers.
Renowned for his elegant batting and remarkable consistency, he played a pivotal role in Indian cricket during the late 1970s and 1980s.
This article delves into his personal life, illustrious career, and legacy.
Dilip Vengsarkar’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dilip Balwant Vengsarkar |
| Nickname | The Colonel |
| Date of Birth | April 6, 1956 |
| Age | 68 years |
| Place of Birth | Rajapur, Maharashtra, India |
| College Attended | R.A. Podar College of Commerce & Economics |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (177 cm) |
| Turned Professional | 1975 |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $5 million |
| Salary | Approx. ₹1 crore annually (from various roles) |
| Spouse | Manali Vengsarkar |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
Early Career
Dilip Vengsarkar began his cricketing journey in Mumbai’s competitive cricket scene.
He gained attention as a teenager when he scored a brilliant 110 in the Irani Trophy against top bowlers like Bishan Singh Bedi and Erapalli Prasanna.
This performance earned him a spot in the Indian Test team, where he debuted against New Zealand in Auckland in January 1976.
Professional Career
Vengsarkar cemented his place as one of India’s most dependable batsmen during the late 1970s and 1980s.
Known for his exquisite drives and composure under pressure, he played 116 Test matches, scoring 6,868 runs at an average of 42.13, including 17 centuries.
One of his most iconic achievements was scoring three consecutive Test centuries at Lord’s (1979, 1982, and 1986), a feat unmatched by any other overseas player.
He was also part of India’s historic 1983 World Cup-winning squad and captained the team from 1987 to 1989. His captaincy tenure included leading India to victory in the 1988 Asia Cup.
Wife
Dilip Vengsarkar is married to Manali Vengsarkar, a jewelry designer. The couple tied the knot on August 15, 1981. They have 2 children: a son, Nakul Vengsarkar (an architect), and a daughter, Pallavi Vengsarkar (a model).
Pallavi is married to businessman Karan Danthi and has a son named Nirvaan.
Dilip Vengsarkar’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Dilip Vengsarkar’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million (approximately ₹40 crore). His wealth comes from his cricketing career, coaching academies, administrative roles, and endorsements.
Career Earnings
| Source | Estimated Earnings (₹) |
|---|---|
| Playing Career | ₹10 crore |
| Coaching/Academies | ₹15 crore |
| Administrative Roles | ₹5 crore |
Endorsements
- Collaborated with Dream Sports Foundation for grassroots cricket development.
- Partnered with Total Oil for supporting cricket academies.
Career Records
| Format | Matches Played Against | Key Performances |
|---|---|---|
| Tests | England | Three centuries at Lord’s |
| Tests | West Indies | Six centuries against their pacers |
| ODIs | England | Scored his only ODI century (105) |
FAQs
1. Who is Dilip Vengsarkar?
Dilip Vengsarkar, also known as “The Colonel,” is a former Indian cricketer and captain, widely regarded as one of India’s finest batsmen. Born on April 6, 1956, in Rajapur, Maharashtra, he played for India from 1976 to 1992 and was known for his elegant batting style and success against top bowling attacks.
2. What are Dilip Vengsarkar’s major achievements in cricket?
Vengsarkar was the first batsman to score three consecutive Test centuries at Lord’s. He was part of India’s 1983 World Cup-winning team and the victorious squad in the 1985 World Championship of Cricket. He also won the Man of the Series award during India’s historic Test series win in England in 1986.
3. What were Dilip Vengsarkar’s career statistics?
- Tests: 116 matches, 6868 runs, average 42.13, 17 centuries.
- ODIs: 129 matches, 3508 runs, average 34.73, 1 century.
- First-class cricket: 260 matches, 17,868 runs, average 52.86.
4. Why is Dilip Vengsarkar called “The Colonel”?
Vengsarkar earned the nickname “The Colonel” for his commanding presence on the field and his ability to lead by example with his elegant batting and consistent performances.
5. What is Dilip Vengsarkar’s connection to Lord’s Cricket Ground?
Vengsarkar is celebrated for being the first cricketer to score three consecutive Test centuries at Lord’s (1979, 1982, and 1986). This remarkable feat earned him a special place in cricket history.
6. What awards has Dilip Vengsarkar received?
He has been honored with several prestigious awards:
- Arjuna Award (1981) for outstanding achievement in cricket.
- Padma Shri (1987), India’s fourth-highest civilian award.
- Named Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1987.
7. What was Dilip Vengsarkar’s role as a captain?
Vengsarkar captained India after the 1987 World Cup and led the team in ten Test matches. While he started well with centuries as captain, his tenure ended controversially after a poor tour of the West Indies in 1989 and disagreements with the BCCI.
8. How did Dilip Vengsarkar perform against top teams like the West Indies?
Vengsarkar excelled against formidable bowling attacks like the West Indies’ pace quartet (Holding, Marshall, Garner, and Roberts), scoring 6 centuries against them—a testament to his skill and resilience.
9. What did Dilip Vengsarkar do after retiring from cricket?
After retiring in 1992, Vengsarkar became a cricket administrator and coach. He established cricket academies to nurture young talent and served as Chairman of Selectors for the BCCI from 2006 to 2008. He also contributed to developing talent through the Talent Resource Development Wing (TRDW).
10. What is Dilip Vengsarkar’s legacy in Indian cricket?
Vengsarkar is remembered as one of India’s most stylish and dependable batsmen during his era. His achievements at Lord’s, success against top bowling attacks, and contributions as a player, captain, and administrator have left an indelible mark on Indian cricket history.
