Akash Lal was an opening batsman who scored consistently in Indian domestic cricket throughout the 1960s, although his first-class career extended over almost two decades. In 1963-64 he really broke though, scoring his first two hundreds in a season which brought him 672 runs at 48.00, the beginning of a run of eight out of nine seasons in which he averaged more than 40. He began 1964-65 with a career-best 209 not out, and the following season was appointed as Delhi's captain, a role he held for three years. By 1966 he was being talked about as a possible India opener and he was given his chance when selected for Prime Minister's XI against the touring West Indies at Delhi in November 1966. He made 82 and 4 but it was generally believed he struggled against Garry Sobers' spin and that, allied to a dropped catch, did for his hopes. He finished his career playing for Punjab.
Martin Williamson