Noted cricketer-turned-coach Vasoo Paranjape died aged 82 on Monday. He died at his residence in Matunga and is survived by his wife and son Jatin, an ex-national selector and cricketer.
Indian cricket Legend Sachin Tendulkar paid tributes to Paranjape and said that he was one of the best coaches he worked with.
"Vasu sir, as I have always known him, was one of the best coaches I have worked with. He has been an integral part of my cricketing journey since childhood and a mentor in many ways. Early in my career, I remember him telling me in Marathi, 'You watch out for the first 15 minutes and the opposition will watch you for the rest of the day,” Sachin Tendulkar said in a statement as quoted by PTI.
Tendulkar said that Paranjape was a knowledgeable, lively and a person with great sense of humour.
"He was knowledgeable, lively and had a great sense of humour. I had visited him a few of months ago and he was his usual humorous self," added Tendulkar.
The batting giant recalled an incident of his U15 days when describe the kind of man Paranjape was.
"During our Under-15 national camp in Indore, the care taker had gone complaining to him (as coach) about us boys playing with a tennis ball in the night, keenly expecting some support and stringent action. Vasu Sir in his inimitable style reacted, 'They are kids and will play. Why don't you also field for them,' leaving the caretaker stumped!” he said.
Tendulkar added that a part of him was gone along with Paranjape.
"He has left us with many memories and moments to smile. I feel that a piece of me has left the world. RIP Vasu Sir," he said.
Here is Sachin Tendulkar's note:
(With PTI inputs)
