Former Indian batter Anshuman Gaekwad passed away on July 31, at the age of 71, after a prolonged battle with cancer. Gaekwad, who was in London for treatment, returned to Baroda last month where he ultimately succumbed to numerous health complications.
Anshuman Gaekwad was a prominent figure in Indian cricket, featuring in 40 Tests and 15 ODIs from 1975 to 1987. Known for his resilience and patience, the Maharashtra-born cricketer set a record for the slowest double-hundred in first-class cricket, batting for a staggering 671 minutes to score 201 against Pakistan in the 1982-83 season. One of his most remarkable innings was against the West Indies in Jamaica in 1981, where he scored 81 runs while facing a fierce bowling attack led by Michael Holding. The late cricketer notably had to undergo an operation on his ear after being struck by a bouncer from Holding.
In addition to his playing career, Gaekwad served as a selector and later as the head coach of the Indian national team. He was respected for his contributions both on and off the field, and his efforts were recognized when the BCCI released an amount of 1 crore towards his treatment, following a request from former cricketers Sandeep Patil and Kapil Dev.
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah expressed his condolences on social media, writing: “My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Anshuman Gaekwad. Heartbreaking for the entire cricket fraternity. May his soul rest in peace.”
Anshuman Gaekwad’s legacy as a player and coach will be remembered fondly by the cricket community.
