During the third day of the ongoing third Test against England, Indian players paid tribute to former captain Dattajirao Gaekwad by wearing black armbands. Dattajirao, who passed away on February 13 after a 12-day hospitalization, had represented India in 11 Tests between 1951 and 1962, making him the oldest living Test cricketer for India at 95 years old. He was also the father of former Indian batsman and coach Anshuman Gaekwad.
BCCI said in an statement: “Team India will be wearing black arm bands in memory of Dattajirao Gaekwad, former India captain and India’s oldest Test cricketer who passed away recently.”
“The BCCI extends its heartfelt support to the champion cricketer and his family. The health and well-being of the players and their loved ones are of utmost importance. The Board requests respect for the privacy of Ashwin and his family as they navigate through this challenging time.”
Known for his right-handed batting and versatile bowling skills encompassing medium pace and leg-break, Dattajirao notably led the Indian team during the 1959 tour of England. His contributions to Indian cricket were remembered and honoured by the players as they displayed their respect and remembrance through the gesture of wearing black armbands during the match.
Between 1952 and 1961, he participated in 11 Test matches for the Indian cricket team, taking on the role of captain during their 1959 tour of England. Commencing his international journey against England at Leeds in 1952, he concluded his tenure with a match against Pakistan in Chennai in 1961.
Gaekwad’s allegiance in the Ranji Trophy was with Baroda from 1947 to 1961, where he showcased his batting prowess by amassing 3,139 runs at an impressive average of 47.56, inclusive of 14 centuries. Notably, his highest score of 249 not out was achieved against Maharashtra during the 1959-60 season.
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