Gaekwad represented India in 40 Tests and 15 ODIs.
The BCCI, senior national team head coach Gautam Gambhir, former cricketer Harbhajan Singh, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Anshuman Gaekwad, who passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer. Gaekwad, a former player, coach, and selector, succumbed to blood cancer on Saturday night. He played in 40 Tests and 15 ODIs for India. Roger Binny, a member of the 1983 World Cup-winning team and current BCCI chief, who also played with Gaekwad, praised his significant contributions to cricket.
“Anshuman Gaekwad’s passing is a tremendous 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,” Binny said in a statement.
“Saddened by the news of Anshuman Gaekwad ji’s demise. May God give strength to his family and loved ones,” wrote Gambhir on his X account from Sri Lanka, where he is with the Indian team for the white-ball series.
Harbhajan Singh, who made his international debut under Gaekwad’s coaching in 1998, shared his condolences.
“Anshuman Gaekwad sir’s demise is heartbreaking. 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,” said Harbhajan, who played 103 Tests, 236 ODIs, and 28 T20Is for India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences, acknowledging Gaekwad’s significant contributions to Indian cricket.
“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,” Modi posted on his official X account.
Home Minister Amit Shah, in his condolence message on X, noted Gaekwad’s impact on Indian cricket.
“Deeply saddened by the demise of Anshuman Gaekwad Ji, a legendary cricketer whose skills enhanced the pride of Indian cricket. My heartfelt condolences are with his family and followers during this hour of grief. Om Shanti,” said Shah.
BCCI secretary Jay Shah described Gaekwad’s death as a heartbreaking loss and called him a “true servant” of Indian cricket.
“The passing of Anshuman Gaekwad is a profound loss for the cricketing community. A true servant of Indian cricket, he will be remembered for his courage, wisdom, and dedication to the sport. His contribution to the game has been significant, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy,” Shah stated.
The BCCI highlighted Gaekwad’s courage and skill in facing some of the best bowlers in the world without flinching.
“Known for his solid technique and firm determination, he showed steely resolve while facing some of the finest spells of fast bowling during a time when protective gear was minimal. As a batter at the highest level, Shri Gaekwad is best remembered for his brave 81 at Jamaica in 1976, where he weathered a ferocious bowling attack on a tough pitch, and his gritty 201 against Pakistan at Jalandhar in 1983, where he batted for 671 minutes,” said the BCCI.
“He also had a stellar domestic record, featuring in over 200 first-class games, scoring over 12,000 runs, including 34 centuries and 47 fifties. His strategic acumen and deep understanding of the game earned him immense respect from players and peers alike. Never hesitant to take up challenges, he donned different hats and seized every opportunity to serve Indian cricket.” The BCCI had recently provided Rs 1 crore for Gaekwad’s medical expenses, as he was being treated at Kings’ College Hospital in London.
Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja also shared his thoughts, remembering Gaekwad as a gallant individual.
“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! He fought gallantly against cancer and gave it his all—just like his batting,” said Raja.
