Former Indian cricket team captain and chief selector Ajit Wadekar passed away at the age of 77 in Mumbai after suffering from prolonged illness. The left-handed batsman was well known for leading the side to Test victories over West Indies and England on foreign soil in the 1970s.
Under Wadekar’s captaincy, India won over five matches in the West Indies in the early 1970s, and then defeated England in a three-match series.
The left-handed batsman scored 2,113 runs in 37 Test matches between 1966 and 1974. He later served as the coach cum manager cum chairman of selectors for the Indian cricket team.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the passed soul and said ‘a great batsman and wonderful captain’ who made a ‘rich contribution to Indian cricket’. “He led our team to some of the most memorable victories in our cricketing history”, Modi tweeted.
The Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) also tweeted, “With a heavy heart we bid adieu to Ajit Wadekar. The former India captain is no more. Cricketer, Coach, Manager and Chairman of Selectors – Mr Wadekar served Indian cricket in many different ways”.
Here are the some other tweets:
Ravi Shastri: Sad moment for Indian cricket to lose one of its most successful captains. Shrewd to the core. Condolences to the entire family #TeamIndia #RIPAjitWadekar.
Anil Kumble: Deeply saddened by the passing away of #AjitWadekar He was more than a coach to the entire team – a father figure and a shrewd tactician. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. He will be missed. Thank you Sir for the confidence shown in my ability!
Virender Sehwag: A rare Cricketer, Captain, Coach, Manager and Chairman of Selectors – a truly great servant of Indian Cricket. Heartfelt condolences to family and loved ones. Om Shanti Ajit Wadekar Sir
Harsha Bhogle: So many memories of Ajit Wadekar. None more powerful than leading India to series wins in 1971 in England and the West Indies. Much admired, much loved. Page in Indian cricket and in our memories.