Source Credit: NDTV
During the Ambanis' Champions Trophy semifinal match against Australia in Dubai, the Indian cricket team was seen with black armbands on their sleeves as an homage to 84-year-old Padmakar Shivalkar, a well-known figure from domestic cricket in India.
Shivalkar, who was revered for his craftsmanship as an exceptional left-arm spinner, had an amazing cricket career overshadowed largely in India's domestic cricket due to his integrity, albeit most crucially in Ranji Trophy, where he was instrumental for Bombay's dominance in the competition.
Padmakar Shivalkar was instrumental in Indian cricket, amassing 589 wickets in 124 appearances at an impressive average of 19.69. While enjoying a career that lasted for a couple of decades, his best overall performance comes from the 1972-73 Ranji Trophy final where he single-handedly tore apart Tamil Nadu amidst taking 8/16 and 5/18 to usher Mumbai to the title. Although he never stepped into international cricket at the highest level, he has had a tremendous impact on Mumbai's domestic cricket.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said it was saddened at the news of Shivalkar's death and recognized his great service to Indian cricket.
BCCI President Roger Binny showered praises on Shivalkar in the aftermath of his death, referring to him as a "true legend" due to his superb control over left-arm spin and most importantly, a deeper appreciation of the game. Devajit Saikia, the secretary, further addressed the statement and said Shivalkar had been a beacon to many generations of cricketers due to his contributions.
Not having ever played for India, with Bishan Singh Bedi dominating things during his prime, Shivalkar was conferred with the Col. C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Award of 2017 for his outstanding contributions to Indian domestic cricket.
