- Wednesday, June 25, 2025
The Indian cricket fraternity is mourning the loss of former left-arm spinner Dilip Doshi, who passed away at 77 following a cardiac arrest in London. Tributes poured in from legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Anil Kumble, and Ravi Shastri.
By: Vibhuti Pathak
The Indian cricket community is united in grief following the passing of former left-arm spinner Dilip Doshi, who died at the age of 77 after suffering a cardiac arrest in London.
Despite spending his early playing days in the formidable shadow of Bishan Singh Bedi, Doshi forged his own path through sheer determination and skill, earning respect and admiration from teammates and fans alike.
Fond Remembrances from Cricket Icons
The outpouring of tributes was led by legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar, who shared a personal memory from his early days in international cricket. “I met Dilip bhai for the first time in the UK in 1990, and he bowled to me in the nets on that tour. He was really fond of me, and I reciprocated his feelings. A warm-hearted soul like Dilip bhai will be deeply missed. I will miss those cricketing conversations which we invariably had. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti,” Tendulkar posted on X.
Former India all-rounder and head coach Ravi Shastri, who shared the field with Doshi, described him as “always immaculate, a gentleman to the core and a fine, fine bowler.” Shastri extended his heartfelt condolences to Doshi’s family, expressing his sadness at the loss of a true cricketing stalwart.
A Distinguished Career in Indian Cricket
Dilip Doshi made his Test debut in 1979, stepping into the Indian team after Bedi’s retirement. Over the course of 33 Test matches until 1983, Doshi claimed 114 wickets, including six five-wicket hauls. He was particularly effective on home soil, reaching the milestone of 100 wickets in just 28 Tests—a testament to his consistency and skill as a left-arm spinner.
Doshi’s performances were instrumental in several Indian victories, and he remains one of the few bowlers to have made such a significant impact despite a late start to his international career.
Personal Tributes and Memories
Former India cricketer and selector Sunil Joshi, himself a left-arm spinner, shared a poignant memory: “Still can’t believe it, we spoke just last Wednesday (25), and he sounded well. Heartbroken by the passing of Dilip Doshi Sir—a legend on the field, a true gentleman off it. He meant a lot to me, and this loss is deeply personal. My heartfelt condolences to Nayan & the Doshi family,” Joshi tweeted.
Anil Kumble, another legendary spinner and former India captain, was among the first to express his sorrow: “Heartbreaking to hear about Dilip bhai’s passing. May God give strength to his family and friends to bear this loss. Nayan, thinking of you buddy.”
Parthiv Patel, former Indian wicketkeeper-batter, also paid his respects: “I’m heartbroken and still in shock about Dilip uncle…he was truly special. Nayan (Doshi’s son), thinking of you all with love and strength.”
Collective Grief Across the Cricketing World
The sense of loss was echoed by many others in the cricket fraternity. Manoj Tiwary wrote, “It’s a shock! India’s legendary cricketer Dilip Doshi passed away at the age of 77 due to a cardiac arrest in London. May God give his family and close ones the strength to deal with this. May his soul rest in peace.”
Former spinners Pragyan Ojha and Harbhajan Singh also expressed their condolences. Ojha said, “Saddened to hear about the passing of Dilip Doshi sir, a distinguished left-arm spinner who served Indian cricket with grace and grit. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace.” Harbhajan simply wrote, “RIP Dilip Doshi sir. Condolences to family.”
An Enduring Legacy
Dilip Doshi’s passing has left a void in Indian cricket. Remembered for his grace, sportsmanship, and unwavering resolve, Doshi’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of cricketers. The heartfelt tributes from across the cricketing spectrum are a testament to the profound impact he had on the game and those who played it alongside him.
