Ashok Mankad was a prominent figure in Indian cricket, known for his versatile skills as a righthanded batsman and occasional rightarm mediumpace bowler. He was born on October 12, 1946, and passed away on August 1, 2008. Mankad represented India in 22 Test matches between 1969 and 1978. While he didn't achieve extraordinary statistical success in his international career, his contributions to domestic cricket were significant. He was a stalwart for Bombay (now Mumbai) in the Ranji Trophy, a premier firstclass cricket tournament in India.

Mankad was highly regarded for his solid technique and ability to build long innings. He possessed a calm and composed demeanor at the crease, making him a reliable middleorder batsman. While he wasn't known for aggressive strokeplay, his focus on accumulating runs and wearing down the opposition bowlers was a valuable asset to his team. Beyond his batting, Mankad was also a shrewd captain, leading Bombay to multiple Ranji Trophy titles. His tactical acumen and ability to inspire his teammates were crucial to their success.

After retiring from competitive cricket, Ashok Mankad remained involved in the sport as a coach and administrator. He shared his knowledge and experience with aspiring cricketers, contributing to the development of the game in India. His legacy extends beyond his playing statistics, encompassing his leadership qualities, his dedication to the sport, and his contributions to Bombay cricket's dominance in the Ranji Trophy. He is remembered as a respected figure in Indian cricket history.