In a turn of events that highlights both triumph and temporary turmoil in Indian cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has found itself under the spotlight yet again. Over the weekend, Team India secured a monumental victory by clinching their second T20 World Cup trophy, which saw them not only pocket Rs 20.41 crore in prize money but also an eye-watering Rs 125 crore cash reward from the BCCI. This celebratory mood, however, comes tinged with an earnest appeal from a former cricketing legend.
Sandeep Patil, an integral part of India’s historic 1983 World Cup-winning squad, has made an impassioned plea to the BCCI to aid ailing former India player and coach Anshuman Gaekwad in his battle against blood cancer. Gaekwad, now 71, has been fighting this life-threatening illness for the past year.
Patil recently visited Gaekwad at King’s College Hospital in London, where the emotional gravity of Gaekwad’s situation became painfully evident. Conveying Gaekwad’s need for financial aid, Patil made his plea public through a column in Mid-Day. During the visit, Gaekwad confided in Patil about his significant medical expenses and the urgency of financial support.
“Anshu told me that he needs funds for his treatment. Soon after our conversation, Dilip Vengsarkar and I reached out to BCCI treasurer Ashish Shelar. Our calls were prompted after seeing Anshu’s condition at King’s College Hospital. Ashish Shelar immediately assured us that he would consider our request along with other appeals from former cricketers,” Patil revealed.
Patil didn’t mince words in stressing the urgency of the matter, emphasizing that any cricketer, irrespective of their nationality, deserves support from their respective boards. However, he pointed out that Gaekwad’s case should be treated as a priority. “I’m sure Shelar will facilitate this and, at the risk of sounding dramatic, help save Anshu’s life.
. Any cricketer from any country should be helped by his board, but Anshu’s case must be taken on priority and treated as paramount,” he added.
It is worth noting that Anshuman Gaekwad is not just any cricketer but a prominent figure in Indian cricket history. Having represented India in 40 Tests and 15 One Day Internationals between 1974 and 1987, Gaekwad later took on the role of head coach for Team India in two separate stints—first from 1997 to 1999 and later in 2000. Under his mentorship, Indian cricket witnessed some memorable moments, including Anil Kumble’s historic feat of claiming all ten wickets in an innings against Pakistan and reaching the finals in the 2000 ICC KnockOut Trophy, which has since been rebranded as the Champions Trophy.
The timing of Patil’s appeal coincides with the cricketing community reflecting on the sacrifices and contributions of those who have shaped the game in India. It also calls into question the welfare and support mechanisms for former players—a topic that has long simmered under the radar but is now gaining more prominence.
Several ex-players and fans have also voiced their support for Patil’s call to action, prompting discussions on social media and other platforms about the need for structured financial support from cricket boards for former players who find themselves in critical health situations.
The BCCI, one of the wealthiest cricket boards in the world, has often been generous with rewards and bonuses for current players. However, this situation casts a revealing light on the need for a comprehensive support system for former players. The cricket board has been known to step in during medical emergencies in the past, but Patil’s public appeal serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing healthcare needs among its retired players.
While the glitz and glamour of international cricket often take center stage, cases like Gaekwad’s highlight the stark reality faced by some of the sport’s loyal servants. As cricket fans across the globe revel in India’s latest victory, it is hoped that institutions like the BCCI will rise to the occasion and remember their commitment toward the well-being of players, past and present.
The story of Anshuman Gaekwad serves as a somber counterpoint to the euphoria surrounding Team India’s triumph, proving that the legacy of cricket is not just confined to trophies and celebrations but also includes the care and respect owed to its torchbearers.
In an era where cricket in India is synonymous with vast riches and immense popularity, the appeal to fund Gaekwad’s treatment becomes a litmus test for the BCCI’s legacy of support and compassion. As the cricketing world watches on, there is hope that Gaekwad’s pleas will be met with the urgency and empathy they so desperately require.
