BCCI to Hold Memorial in Honour of Ajit Wadekar

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is planning to organise a memorial in the memory of former India skipper Ajit Wadekar, who passed away at the age of 77 at Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai on August 15 (Wednesday).

Veteran Wadekar played 37 Tests and amassed 2,113 runs at an average of 31.07. His only Test hundred came against New Zealand in Wellington in February 1968, a knock that helped India to clinch the Test. Eventually, the Asian nation won their first-ever series (3-1) away from home.

Despite being a left-handed No.3 batsman of good repute, Wadekar’s name will forever be synonymous with India’s series victories in Windies and England in the summer of 1971.

Wadekar, India’s 16th Test captain, led the country in 16 Tests, with India winning four and losing four matches. Wadekar decided to step down after India’s dismal tour to England in 1974.

BCCI to organise a memorial lecture for late Ajit Wadekar:

BCCI GM, cricket operations, Saba Karim recently visited Wadekar’s residence to pay homage to the late cricketer. He also admitted that it had created a big void in Indian cricket. They are planning to host a memorial lecture in Mumbai to talk about the good memories.

“We can talk about good times and can have some banters too. Basically, the idea is to remember the man and feel proud of the fact that all of us have been touched by his life and his captaincy,” Karim said to Sportstar.

“I hope so (a tournament or trophy is named, honouring Wadekar). I am sure (it would happen). But these are very early days,” he concluded.