Alva was a good middle-order batsman, medium-pace bowler and slip fielder. He represented Madras from 1944–45 to 1954–55 and captained the team in Ranji Trophy for three seasons. He also played for Mysore in 1957–58 and 1958–59. He was a part of the Indian national cricket team for two unofficial tests against Commonwealth XI in 1951–52.