Farewell to Cricket Veteran: Anshuman Gaekwad Cremated in Vadodara

Former Indian cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad was cremated in Vadodara, Gujarat. He was 71, having succumbed to blood cancer. His cremation saw attendance from notable sports and political personalities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences. Gaekwad had an illustrious career both as a player and as a coach.

Former India cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad was cremated in Vadodara city of Gujarat on Thursday afternoon.

The last rites were performed at Kirti Mandir in the presence of his family members and prominent personalities from sports, politics, and other fields.

Gaekwad, who served Indian cricket as a player, coach, and selector, succumbed to blood cancer on Wednesday night at a private hospital in Vadodara at the age of 71.

Following his death at the hospital, Gaekwad's mortal remains were taken to his residence in the Sevasi area of the city, from where a funeral procession proceeded to Kirti Mandir. His son, Shatrunjay Gaekwad, performed the last rites at around 1.30 pm.

President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Roger Binny, along with former wicketkeepers Nayan Mogia and Kiran More, several former and current office-bearers of the Baroda Cricket Association, Vadodara BJP president Vijay Shah, and Congress spokesperson Narendra Rawat attended Gaekwad's cremation.

Family sources disclosed that a prayer meeting will soon be organized in the city in Gaekwad's remembrance.

Gaekwad represented India in 40 Test matches and 15 One Day Internationals. He also played 205 first-class matches in a career spanning 22 years and acted as the coach of the Indian team that finished runners-up at the 2000 ICC Champions Trophy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, saying via his official X account, ''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.''

(With inputs from agencies.)