AustLit

Ranjitsinhji ('Ranji') was an Indian-born prince (later Maharaja of Nawangar) who played Test cricket for England in the period 1896-1902. Known for his inventive and unorthodox strokes, he became one of the greatest batsmen of his era, and along with W.G. Grace, was one of cricket's first great stars. Whilst his career was not entirely free from the spectre of racism, his aggressive style and ability to play genuinely fast bowling won him the admiration of players and spectators alike. 'Ranji' toured Australia with A. E. Stoddart's team in 1897-1898, during which he attracted both widespread public interest and also a level of controversy for his comments on Australian fast bowler Ernest Jones, who was no-balled for throwing during the second test match played at Melbourne.