Former India Cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad Dies After Prolonged Battle with Cancer

India Cricket Legend Anshuman Gaekwad Dies at 71 Following Long Cancer Struggle.

Former India cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad passed away on Wednesday at the age of 71 after a prolonged battle with cancer. Gaekwad, who had a distinguished career both as a player and a coach, represented India in 40 Test matches and 15 ODIs. In addition to his playing career, he served as an India coach and national selector.

Gaekwad was receiving treatment for blood cancer at King’s College Hospital in London before returning to India last month. The BCCI contributed ₹1 crore towards his treatment, and members of the 1983 World Cup-winning team also supported him during his illness.

Anshuman Gaekwad, a respected figure in Indian cricket, had a career spanning 22 years in first-class cricket and contributed significantly both as a player and a coach. His involvement in the sport extended beyond his playing days, as he later took on roles as a coach and national selector.

Career Highlights:

• Playing Career: Gaekwad played 40 Tests and 15 ODIs for India. He was known for his resilient opening batting and dogged defense.
• Notable Innings: Among his remarkable performances was a double century against Imran Khan’s Pakistan and his notable innings against a fierce West Indies attack in 1976.
• Coaching: He coached the Indian team between 1998 and 1999, witnessing notable moments such as Anil Kumble’s historic 10-wicket haul against Pakistan at Ferozeshah Kotla.
• Selectors and Admin Roles: He served as a national selector, was the head of the Baroda Cricket Association, and was an Apex Council member of the BCCI as an ICA representative.

Tributes and Condolences:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Expressed sorrow over Gaekwad’s demise, praising his contributions to cricket and extending condolences to his family and fans.
• BCCI Secretary Jay Shah: Offered heartfelt condolences, noting the loss to the entire cricket community.

Gaekwad’s legacy includes his contributions to Indian cricket both on and off the field, and he is remembered for his dedication and impact on the sport.

The cricketing world has paid heartfelt tributes to Anshuman Gaekwad, honoring his remarkable contributions to the sport and expressing their condolences.

Tributes from Cricket Legends:

– Sunil Gavaskar: Known for his legendary career as an opening batsman, Gavaskar shared his admiration for Gaekwad’s contributions to cricket and his role as a teammate.

– Kapil Dev: The former Indian captain and World Cup winner praised Gaekwad’s contributions to Indian cricket and expressed deep sadness at his passing.

– Ravi Shastri: Former India coach Shastri remembered Gaekwad’s significant role in Indian cricket and his influence as a coach and selector.

– Clive Lloyd: The West Indian great, who faced Gaekwad’s determined batting, acknowledged his impact on the game.

– Andy Roberts: Another West Indian cricketer who had encounters with Gaekwad, Roberts reflected on Gaekwad’s resilience and skill.

– Farokh Engineer: A former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, Engineer shared his respect for Gaekwad’s achievements and his role in Indian cricket.

– Dilip Vengsarkar: Former Indian captain Vengsarkar paid tribute to Gaekwad, highlighting his contributions to the team and his impact on the game.

– Roger Binny: BCCI President and 1983 World Cup winner Binny offered condolences, recognizing Gaekwad’s dedication to cricket.

– Mohinder Amarnath: Amarnath, another member of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, expressed his sorrow and fond memories of Gaekwad.

– Sandeep Patil: Patil shared his respect for Gaekwad’s career and his influence on Indian cricket.

– Karsan Ghavri: Ghavri, who played alongside Gaekwad, honored his contributions to the sport.

– Balwinder Singh Sandhu: Sandhu, who was part of the 1983 World Cup team, remembered Gaekwad’s role and achievements.

– Nana Patekar: The actor and cricket enthusiast extended his sympathies, acknowledging Gaekwad’s impact on the sport.

These tributes reflect the deep respect and admiration Gaekwad commanded within the cricketing community and the impact he had on those who knew and worked with him.