Anshuman Gaekwad, the former India batter and national head coach, lost his battle against blood cancer and passed away at the age of 71. Gaekwad, who was in London till last month, died in Baroda after a brief time in the ICU due to various health complications.
Gaekwad, son of former India captain Datta Gaekwad, played 40 Tests and 15 ODIs for India between 1975 and 1987. He then went on to become a selector and later head coach of the Indian team.
The right-handed opener scored 1985 runs from 70 Test innings, with a highest score of 201 against Pakistan in 1982-83.
He had two different stints as India's head coach between 1997 and 2000. His first stint coincided with Sachin Tendulkar taking over captaincy from Mohammad Azharuddin. His second stint in 2000 came after the match-fixing scandal had rocked the team.
In 2018, he was conferred with the Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award by the BCCI.
Recently, it was discovered that Gaekwad was battling cancer and was being treated in a London hospital. When Sandeep Patil and Kapil Dev revealed that the ex-cricketer's family was struggling and urged the BCCI for financial help, the Indian board immediately released INR 1 cr for his treatment.
BCCI secretary Jay Shah personally talked to Gaekwad’s family in London and assured them of all possible help. However, Gaekwad lost the battle to cancer and passed in Baroda in a hospital.
Roger Binny, President of BCCI, said, “Anshuman Gaekwad's passing is a great loss for Indian cricket. His dedication, resilience, and love for the game were unparalleled. He was not just a cricketer but a mentor and a friend to many. The cricketing community will miss him dearly, and his contributions will always be remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones as they cope with this loss.”
Jay Shah, Honorary Secretary, BCCI, said, “The passing of Anshuman Gaekwad is a profound loss for the cricketing community. A true servant of Indian cricket, he will be remembered for his courage, wisdom, and dedication to the sport. His contribution to the game has been significant, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy. My thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Not only did the BCCI pay rich tribute to Anshuman Gaekwad on his passing, but members of the Indian cricketing fraternity also took to X and paid their condolences.
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