Former Mumbai captain and selector Milind Rege passed away after suffering a heart attack on Wednesday (February 19), just days after turning 76.

According to a PTI report, Rege was admitted in the intensive care unit of the Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai and took his last breath around 6 AM on Wednesday morning. He is survived by his wife and two sons.

Rege, a highly respected figure in domestic cricket, had reportedly suffered a heart attack at the age of 26 but he returned to the cricket field and also captained Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy.

Rege, who was an all-rounder, played 52 First-Class matches between 1966-67 and 1977-78, claiming 126 wickets with his right-arm off-break bowling. He also contributed with the bat, amassing 1,532 runs at an average of 23.56.

A childhood friend of Sunil Gavaskar, Milind Rege attended the same school and college as the legendary India opener and played alongside him at the Dadar Union Sporting Club.

Rege performed several roles right through his career and was also associated with the Mumbai Cricket Association as a cricket advisor.

The Mumbai cricket team, which is currently playing their Ranji Trophy semifinal against Vidarbha in Nagpur, took the field on the third day wearing black armbands to honour Rege.

"Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Milind Rege Sir. A stalwart of Mumbai cricket, his contributions as a player, selector, and mentor were invaluable," said MCA president Ajinkya Naik in a statement.

"His guidance shaped generations of cricketers, and his legacy will forever be cherished. May his soul rest in peace. Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones," he added.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also condoled the demise of Milind Rege on social media platform X.

“The BCCI mourns the passing of Milind Rege, former Mumbai captain and selector. A pillar of Mumbai cricket, he played a key role in its growth and legacy. His keen eye for talent and contributions as a commentator earned admiration across the cricketing fraternity. The Board extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the @MumbaiCricAssoc,” the Indian board tweeted.

(With PTI Inputs)