Former Tamil Nadu State cricketer VN Madhava Rao passed away in Chennai on Monday. He was 86 and had been ailing for some time. He is survived by four sons and a daughter.

Madhava Rao represented Madras in five Ranji Trophy matches in the late 30s and early 40s. He scored 104 runs with a highest score of 34. He opened the innings with the great CP Johnstone. After his career was over, he was involved in coaching. Madhava Rao was the younger brother of Dr VNC Rao, former vice president of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association. Madhava Rao, who captained the Southern Railway team, was also proficient in football.

Madhava Rao's son VN Suresh was also a good cricketer. He played for his employers Integral Coach Factory in the TNCA senior division league and is currently playing in the lower division and doing his bit to motivate youngsters.

Board of Control for Cricket in India president AC Muthiah and Tamil Nadu Cricket Association secretary Ashok Kumbhat condoled his death.