Anil Kumble Pays Tribute to a Father Figure Ajit Wadekar

Ajit Wadekar, Indian cricket’s first-ever One-day International leader, took his last breath on Wednesday (August 16) night at the age of 77. Meanwhile, the former Indian skipper and also the ex-head coach of Indian team, Anil Kumble expressed condolences to Wadekar’s family. He termed Wadekar as a fatherly-like figure.

Wadekar, who was suffering from the prolonged illness now left the world to leave his family in an utter shock.

Ajit Wadekar was more than a coach for the team: Anil Kumble

The classy skipper gave his helping hand to Indian cricket in many ways. He was also the team’s head coach and then moved to the officials’ panel as well.

Under his captaincy and during the head coach stint, Wadekar produced marathon cricketers to Indian cricket.

The leg-spinner Anil Kumble, who’s the leading wicket-taker for India in Tests is also one of the ace-spinner backed by Ajit Wadekar.

Speaking of the rapport, Kumble expressed his thankfulness for trusting his ability and paid his final tribute to him as well.

His tweet read ”Deeply saddened by the passing away of Ajit Wadekar. 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.”

A brief look at Wadekar’s career:

Wadekar played 37 Tests and amassed 2,113 runs at an average of 31.07. He is the first skipper to give India the taste of success in England and Windies. Both the teams used to be the rule the roost in those times.

The stylish southpaw played a lot of handy and gutsy knocks for Team India in overseas conditions. His exceptional ability to score runs in a quick time and the rock-solid defence are the major highlights of his batting display.

Wadekar captained India in 16 Test matches in which they won four and lost four games respectively. After a series loss against England, he stepped down from captaincy.

Post captaincy, Ajit Wadekar featured in one first-class game and bid adieu to the cricketing world.

After the conclusion of his cricketing career, Wadekar served as a selector and also as the coach-cum-manager of the Indian side from 1992-93 to the 1996 World Cup.