Former cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad is dead

FORMER India batsman and two-time national coach Anshuman Gaekwad has died aged 71 following a long battle with cancer, cricket authorities said Thursday.

Gaekwad passed away in the western city of Baroda on Wednesday after suffering various health complications.

He played 40 Tests and 15 ODIs for India before becoming a selector and coach of the national team.

Gaekwad scored 1,985 runs from 70 Test innings, with a highest score of 201 against Pakistan in the 1982-83 series.

The current Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief, Roger Binny, who was also a teammate of Gaekwad, said the cricketing community will miss his contribution.

"Aunshuman 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," said Binny in a statement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed sadness over the batsman's death.

Former cricketer Harbhajan Singh, who made his international debut in 1998 when Gaekwad was the team coach, said, "Anshuman Gaekwad's sir demise is heartbreaking news. I have fond memories of making my Test debut under his coaching."

Harbhajan, who went on to play 103 Tests, 236 ODIs and 28 T20Is for the country.

The BCCI had recently disbursed Rs 10 million for the medical expenses of Gaekwad, who was being treated for blood cancer at the Kings' College Hospital in London. He returned to the country last month.

Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja too conveyed his thoughts about Gaekwad and remembered him as "gallant" person.

"Deeply saddened by the passing of Anshuman Gaekwad. An affable, polished gentleman, he was my late brother's buddy which made me fond of him!! Fought gallantly against cancer and gave it his all - bit like his batting," said Raja.

Gaekwad was known for fearlessly facing West Indies fast bowlers in an era when there were neither helmets nor restrictions on bouncers.

He had to undergo an operation after being struck on the ear by a Michael Holding bouncer that punctured his eardrum. (Agencies)