The cricketing world mourns the loss of Anshuman Gaekwad, a stalwart of Indian cricket, who passed away at the age of 71 after a prolonged battle with blood cancer. Gaekwad, known for his grit and resilience both on and off the field, left an indelible mark on the sport. His contributions as a player, coach, and mentor have been lauded by many, including current and former players, highlighting his enduring influence on Indian cricket.

Solid Career Playing Career

Gaekwad’s career as a player spanned from 1975 to 1987, during which he represented India in 40 Tests and 15 ODIs. As a batsman, he was known for his dogged determination and ability to withstand pressure. His highest Test score of 201 against Pakistan in the 1982-83 series remains a testament to his patience and technique. In a marathon innings lasting 671 minutes, Gaekwad registered the slowest double century in first-class cricket at that time, showcasing his immense concentration and focus.

One of his most memorable performances came against a formidable West Indies side in Jamaica, where he scored a gritty 81 against a fearsome pace attack that included Michael Holding. This knock was especially noteworthy as it came in an era without helmets, highlighting Gaekwad’s courage and skill. Unfortunately, he suffered a severe injury during this match when a Holding bouncer struck his ear, puncturing his eardrum and necessitating surgery.

Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Aunshu bhai. He was closely associated with my career as selector, coach but more importantly always had my back. A kind hearted person with a fierce competitive streak. Our fraternity is going to miss you Aunshubhai. May God give…

— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) August 1, 2024

Contributions as Coach and Mentor

After his playing days, Gaekwad transitioned into coaching and administration, serving as the head coach of the Indian national team in two separate stints between 1997 and 2000. His tenure saw India achieve significant successes, including winning the Independence Cup and a historic home series victory against Australia. One of the standout moments under his coaching was Anil Kumble’s iconic 10-wicket haul against Pakistan, which remains etched in the annals of cricket history.

Gaekwad’s second tenure as coach came during a tumultuous period in Indian cricket, marked by the match-fixing scandal and the resignation of Kapil Dev. Despite the challenges, Gaekwad managed to steer the team to the final of the ICC Knockout Trophy in 2000, where India narrowly lost to New Zealand. His calm demeanor and deep understanding of the game helped the team navigate these difficult times.

Tributes and Reflections

The cricketing fraternity has paid heartfelt tributes to Gaekwad, acknowledging his contributions to the sport. Current India captain Rohit Sharma expressed his condolences, stating, “I was lucky to have a few conversations with him during the BCCI awards and on a personal note as well. It’s always nice when you learn from your seniors, understand how cricket was played back in the day, how tough it was, and then to pass on his experiences.”

BCCI president Roger Binny also paid homage to Gaekwad’s legacy, noting, “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.”

Legacy of Dedication and Resilience

Gaekwad’s career, both as a player and coach, was characterized by his dedication to the game and resilience in the face of adversity. His calm presence and wealth of knowledge made him a respected figure in Indian cricket. Even after his active involvement in the sport, Gaekwad continued to be a guiding force for young cricketers, sharing his insights and experiences.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently contributed INR 1 crore towards Gaekwad’s medical treatment, a gesture that reflects the high regard in which he was held within the cricketing community. This support came at the urging of former cricketers Kapil Dev and Sandeep Patil, who emphasized the importance of assisting their former teammate during a challenging time.

Gaekwad’s passing leaves a void in Indian cricket, but his legacy will live on through the players he coached and the countless fans who admired his tenacity and skill. As we remember Anshuman Gaekwad, we celebrate a life dedicated to the sport and the enduring impact he made on Indian cricket.