Anshuman Gaekwad, former Indian cricketer, passes away at 71; PM Modi says ‘he was gifted player, outstanding coach’

Former India cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad passed away on Wednesday at the age of 71. As per PTI report, he died after fighting a long battle with cancer.

Gaekwad, who previously served as an India coach and national selector, had been receiving treatment for blood cancer at King's College Hospital in London. He returned to the country last month. Earlier in June, the BCCI had contributed ₹1 crore towards Gaekwad's medical expenses, additionally, the members of the 1983 World Cup-winning team also pitched in to support him.

All you need to know about Anshuman Gaekwad

- Anshuman Gaekwad was son of former India captain D K Gaekwad, who captained the Indian team on it's tour to England in 1959.

- Gaekwad played for India in 40 Test matches and 15 One-Day Internationals between 1975 and 1987.

- Over a 22-year career, he also participated in 205 first-class matches.

-The Indian squad that placed second in the 2000 ICC Champions Trophy was coached by Gaekwad. The wins in Sharjah in 1998 and the memorable 1999 Test match at Ferozeshah Kotla in Delhi, where Anil Kumble got all ten wickets in an innings against Pakistan, are among the career high points for him as a coach, as reported by PTI.

PM Modi offers condolences

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the demise of former India cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad, who passed away at the age of 71 on Wednesday. The Prime Minister wrote, “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.”

Reactions from sports fraternity

BCCI secretary Jay Shah also paid his tribute to the late cricketer and wrote, “My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr Aunshuman Gaekwad. Heartbreaking for the entire cricket fraternity. May his soul rest in peace.”

Sourav Ganguly mourned Gaekwad and wrote on X, “RIP Anshu bhai .. terrible terrible news.”

Harbhajan Singh who had made his Test debut under him wrote, “Anshuman Gaekwad's sir demise is a heartbreaking news. 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 family”

(With inputs from agencies)