Sunil Gavaskar received death threats from West Indies pacers, reveals ex-cricketer

Former Team India cricketer and Yuvraj Singh's father, Yograj Singh, recently recalled the intense intimidation Indian batters faced from West Indies pacers in the past. Yograj stated that legendary Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar was once subjected to death threats and abuse from the Caribbean quicks.

The battles between Sunil Gavaskar and the West Indies remain a timeless topic of discussion among cricket fans. Gavaskar has shared numerous stories about facing the Caribbean side’s pace attack. The West Indies had the ability to send batters straight to the hospital with their brutal pace.

I'm Going to Kill You, Man - Yograj Singh Recalls West Indies' Threats to Gavaskar

Speaking to Inside Sports, Yograj Singh revealed that bowlers like Malcolm Marshall, Joel Garner, Andy Roberts, Michael Holding, and Colin Croft threatened to “kill” Sunil Gavaskar with bouncers. He added that these bowlers would deliberately aim at the head on the field.

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"You should have seen the West Indians. Ask Sunil Gavaskar. He will tell you. Oh, it's another man. Small man. I'm going to kill you, man. You have kids. Go home. You bloody this and this and this and this," Yograj told Inside Sports.

"People like Michael Hoding and Marshall and all the guys are coming and abusing you. Hitting you on the head, bruising you. Go to the hospital. But they were also very harsh words," he added.

Sunil Gavaskar’s Dominance Against the West Indies Pace Attack

Sunil Gavaskar dominated the West Indies fast bowling attack in the late 1970s and 1980s. While many batters struggled or even feared facing the West Indian pace quartet, Gavaskar delivered exceptional performances.

Dilip Vengsarkar was struck on the chin by Malcolm Marshall during a 1983 World Cup group match, an injury that ruled him out for the rest of the tournament. West Indies bowlers targeted Gavaskar without grudges, but because of the challenge he posed with his consistency and skill.

Gavaskar amassed 2,749 runs in 27 Tests at an average of 65.45, including 13 centuries. He performed even better in their own backyard, scoring 1,404 runs in 13 Tests in the Caribbean at an average of 70, with 7 centuries.

Sunil Gavaskar Made His Test Debut in India's Tour of the West Indies in 1971

Gavaskar made his Test debut during India's 1971 tour of the West Indies. The opener scored 774 runs in just four matches - the most by any Indian batter in a bilateral Test series. He crossed fifty in seven of his eight innings and helped India to their first-ever Test series win in the Caribbean.

Just days before departure, Gavaskar developed a painful whitlow on his left middle finger. The condition worsened mid-flight, prompting the team manager to seek medical help on board.

Upon arrival in New York, he was rushed to a hospital, where doctors warned that a 24-hour delay could have resulted in gangrene and the loss of his finger. Gavaskar went on to produce an unforgettable series, including scores of 124 and 220, despite battling a severe toothache.

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