PM Modi, cricketers pay tributes to legendary Indian cricketer and coach Anshuman Gaekwad
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former cricketers, and cricket fans from across the country are paying glowing tributes to Anshuman Gaekwad, who passed away at the age of 71 after a battle with cancer.
Gaekwad, who played 40 Tests and 15 ODIs for India from 1975 to 1987, passed away on Wednesday night while undergoing treatment for blood cancer.
Tributes pour in for?Anshuman Gaekwad
"Shri Anshuman Gaekwad Ji will be remembered for his contribution to cricket. He was a gifted player and an outstanding coach. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a social media post.
"Anshuman Gaekwad sir's demise is heartbreaking news. I have fond memories of making my Test debut under his coaching. A thorough gentleman. Indian cricket will be poorer in his absence. Rest in peace. Condolences to the family. Om Shanti Om," former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh said.
Also read:?1983 World Cup Win: 40 Years On, Where Are India's Heroes Now
"Saddened by the news of the demise of Anshuman Gaekwad ji. May God give strength to his family and loved ones," Team India coach Gautam Gambhir said.
Cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle described Gaekwad as "one of the grittiest fighters in Indian cricket."
"Very saddened to hear that one of the grittiest fighters in Indian cricket, Anshuman Gaekwad, has lost his battle to cancer. He was brave, intelligent, and loved our game deeply. His family can be very proud of him," he wrote.
Former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin remembered Gaekwad as a remarkable cricketer and an even greater mentor.
"Deeply saddened by the passing of Anshuman Gaekwad. A remarkable cricketer and an even greater mentor. His contributions to Indian cricket will always be remembered. Rest in peace, dear friend," Azharuddin wrote.
Second generation cricketer?
The son of Datta Gaekwad, who played 11 Tests for India, Anshuman Gaekwad made his Team India debut against the West Indies in December 1974. He scored 1,985 runs in Tests, with his highest score of 201 coming against arch-rival Pakistan. In a career that spanned over 22 years, Gaekwad played 205 first-class matches.
Was Team India's coach twice?
After his retirement from cricket, Gaekwad transitioned into a coaching and administrative role. He was the coach of Team India on two different occasions, including when legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble took all ten wickets in an innings against Pakistan in New Delhi in 1999.
Also read:?Did You Know That This 1983 Cricket World Cup Winner Never Played For India?
Battle with cancer?
Earlier this year, after he was diagnosed with blood cancer, the BCCI provided him with financial assistance of Rs 1 crore. The 1983 World Cup-winning team also financially helped with the treatment of Gaekwad.
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