BCCI Pays Tribute to Legendary Spinner Padmakar Shivalkar

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed its condolences on the passing of Padmakar Shivalkar, a legendary left-arm spinner who made an indelible mark on Indian domestic cricket.

Shivalkar, who passed away on Monday, was a revered figure in the Ranji Trophy and is remembered for his extraordinary contributions to Mumbai cricket.

A Stalwart of Indian Domestic Cricket

Shivalkar’s career in domestic cricket remains unmatched, with his incredible ability to deceive batters using flight, accuracy, and sharp turn.

Across 124 first-class matches, he secured 589 wickets at an exceptional average of 19.69.

His legendary performance in the 1972-73 Ranji Trophy final, where he claimed 8 for 16 and 5 for 18, played a crucial role in Mumbai’s victory over Tamil Nadu.

His precise control over line and length and remarkable consistency made him one of the most formidable bowlers in domestic cricket.

Despite unresponsive pitches, he managed to extract sharp turns and outclass some of the best batters of his era. His longevity in the game, playing into his late forties, reflected his resilience and passion for cricket.

Shivalkar’s Unfortunate Absence from International Cricket

Despite his stellar domestic record, Shivalkar never represented India at the international level.

His career coincided with the era of Bishan Singh Bedi, another legendary left-arm spinner, which limited his opportunities to break into the national team.

However, his contributions to Indian cricket did not go unrecognized. In 2017, the BCCI honored him with the prestigious Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award for his immense impact on the sport.

Reactions from Cricketing Fraternity

BCCI President Roger Binny’s Statement

BCCI President Roger Binny acknowledged Shivalkar’s greatness, stating, “Indian cricket has lost a true legend today. Padmakar Shivalkar’s mastery over left-arm spin and his deep understanding of the game made him a revered figure in domestic cricket.

His exceptional career and selfless contribution to Mumbai and Indian Cricket will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia’s Tribute

BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia also paid tribute, saying, “Shivalkar Sir was an inspiration to generations of cricketers. His consistency, skill, and longevity in the game were truly remarkable.

While he may not have played for India, his impact on Indian cricket, especially in Mumbai, is undeniable. His achievements speak volumes about his exceptional abilities. Indian cricket has lost one of its most dignified servants. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and well-wishers.”

Sunil Gavaskar’s Emotional Message

Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar expressed his deep sorrow at Shivalkar’s passing, stating that he deserved an India cap more than some who received it.

Reflecting on Mumbai’s recent losses, including former captain Milind Rege, Gavaskar wrote, “This is very sad news indeed. Within a short time, Mumbai cricket has lost two of its stalwarts, Milind and now Padmakar, who were the architects of many a victory.”

Gavaskar, who featured Shivalkar in his book Idols, regretted not being able to convince the selectors to include him in the Indian Test team.

“One of my regrets as India captain is not being able to convince the national selectors to include ‘Paddy’ in the Test team. He deserved the India cap far more than some others who got it. That’s fate.”

A Legendary Domestic Career

Shivalkar made his Ranji Trophy debut at 22 and continued to play until he was 48. Over a career spanning from the 1961-62 to 1987-88 seasons, he took 361 wickets in the Ranji Trophy.

His dominance in domestic cricket earned him great respect, and he was often compared to Haryana’s Rajinder Goel, another prolific left-arm spinner who never played for India due to the presence of Bishan Singh Bedi.

His impact on Mumbai cricket was unparalleled. He played a crucial role in ten of Mumbai’s victorious Ranji Trophy campaigns between 1965-66 and 1976-77 and was part of the squad that reclaimed the title in 1980-81.

Remarkably, he returned to play two more matches at the age of 47 in the 1987-88 season.

VVS Laxman and Others Pay Tribute

Former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman also paid tribute, acknowledging Shivalkar’s immense contributions to domestic cricket and the unfortunate reality of his exclusion from the national team.

He tweeted, “Deeply saddened to know about the demise of the legendary left-arm spinner and one of India’s domestic cricket heroes, Padmakar Shivalkar Sir. Heard a lot of stories about his exploits in domestic cricket and how unfortunate he was to not represent the country.”

Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) President Ajinkya Naik also recognized his legacy, stating, “Mumbai cricket has lost a true legend today.

Padmakar Shivalkar Sir’s contribution to the game, especially as one of the finest spinners of all time, will always be remembered. His dedication, skill, and impact on Mumbai cricket are unparalleled. His passing is an irreplaceable loss to the cricketing fraternity. May his soul rest in peace.”