Question

Who among the following is the first cricket player to be awarded the Arjuna Award?
1. Chandu Borde
2. Vijay Manjrekar
3. Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi
4. Salim Durani

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 4 : Salim Durani

The correct answer is Salim Durani.

• Salim Durani was the first Indian cricketer to receive the Arjuna Award.

• Salim Durrani has been India's finest all-rounder. Salim also bowled with his left hand and batting as well.
• Durrani started his Test journey against Australia in the year 1960.
• Salim Durrani played a total of 29 Tests in a 13-year international career. 
• The Arjuna Award was instituted in 1961. Salim Durrani received the first Arjuna Award in the game of cricket.

• Arjuna Awards:
  • The Arjuna Awards were instituted in 1961.
  • The recipients are selected by a committee constituted by the Ministry and are honored for their "good performance in the field of sports over a period of four years" at the international level and for having shown "qualities of leadership, sportsmanship and a sense of discipline." 
  • The award consists of a statue, a scroll of honor, a ceremonial dress, and a cash award of 15 lakh which will be presented to the winners.