Former India Test opener Madhav Apte passed away at the Breach Candy hospital in Mumbai on Monday (September 23) at the age of 86.
Featuring in seven Tests, including five in and against the mighty West Indies, for the country in early 1950's, Apte scored 542 runs at an average of 49.27.
The Mumbai veteran struck two magnificent hundreds in Port of Spain versus an attack comprising Frank King, Gerry Gomez, Frank Worrell, Alf Valentine and Sonny Ramadhin. However, despite such a great series, Apte was dropped and never played for India again.
In all, Apte, who came through the strong age-group system in Mumbai after quality performances in school tournaments like Giles Shield as well as University-level tournaments, played 67 first-class matches, including three for Bengal.
Apte also served as the president of the famous Cricket Club of India (CCI) in Mumbai and during his tenure took a significant decision when he tweaked the strict age-limit rules to accommodate a 15-year-old Sachin Tendulkar to represent the club as a player.
"A classy, dignified human being. From an era where love for the game was unconditional. Wonderful host, great story-teller," as renowned commentator Harsha Bhogle aptly deemed. May his soul rest in peace.
Tributes poured in as one of the country's finest took his last breath.
