5 cricketers who opened both batting and bowling consistently

2. ML Jaisimha

ML Jaisimha used to roll his arms over in the opening overs

The prolific Indian cricketer of the past generation was a delight for the connoisseurs for his exquisite strokes. This Hyderabadi legend used to open the innings with the usual flair and panache and sometimes had to roll his arms over as well.

A part-time off-break bowler, Jaisimha picked up 9 wickets in his Test career. On 14 occasions for India in Tests, Jaisimha opened the proceedings with both bat and ball. He inspired a long generation of Hyderabad cricketers, including Mohammad Azharuddin who later became the captain of India.

Down under, Jaisimha’s prolific scores of 74 and 101 on the pacy Brisbane track in 1968 are still treasured by the purists.