• Cricket fraternity mourned former India spinner Dilip Doshi's demise.

  • Doshi, 77, died of cardiac arrest in London on Monday.

Dilip Doshi passes away: Sachin Tendulkar, Ravi Shastri lead emotional tributes
Dilip Doshi passes away: Sachin Tendulkar, Ravi Shastri lead emotional tributes (Pic Source: X)

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The Indian cricket community is steeped in sorrow following the demise of former left-arm spinner Dilip Doshi, who passed away in London on Monday at the age of 77 due to cardiac arrest. The news, confirmed by the Saurashtra Cricket Association, has triggered a wave of heartfelt tributes from cricketing luminaries and former teammates, all mourning the loss of a true gentleman of the game.

Remembering Indian cricket legend Dilip Doshi

Doshi’s international career was a testament to perseverance. He defied conventional timelines, making his Test debut in 1979 at the seasoned age of 32, after years of consistently impressive performances in the domestic circuit. Despite this late start, he carved out a significant niche for himself, representing India in 33 Tests and 15 One Day Internationals until 1983. A master of subtle variations and pinpoint accuracy, Doshi claimed 114 wickets in Test cricket, including six memorable five-wicket hauls. His effectiveness was particularly pronounced on home soil, where he secured an impressive 100 wickets within his first 28 matches. One of his most iconic displays came in 1981 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where, battling through the pain of a fractured toe, he delivered a heroic five-wicket haul that proved instrumental in India’s successful defense of a modest total.

Cricket fraternity pays homage to the most-respected left-arm spinner

Tributes have poured in from across the cricketing spectrum, led by none other than batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar. Recalling his first encounter with Doshi in the UK in 1990, Tendulkar shared an emotional message on social media. “I met Dilipbhai for the first time in the UK in 1990, and he bowled to me in the nets on that tour,” Tendulkar wrote. “He was really fond of me, and I reciprocated his feelings. A warm-hearted soul like Dilipbhai will be deeply missed. I will miss those cricketing conversations which we invariably had. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti.”

Former India all-rounder and head coach Ravi Shastri, a contemporary of Doshi on the field, remembered him fondly. “Always immaculate, a gentleman to the core and a fine, fine bowler. Heartfelt condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace,” Shastri posted, highlighting Doshi’s unwavering class both on and off the pitch.

Other prominent figures also conveyed their profound sadness. Legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble expressed, “Heartbreaking to hear about Dilip bhai’s passing. May God give strength to his family and friends to bear this loss. Nayan, thinking of you buddy.” Parthiv Patel affectionately referred to him as “Dilip uncle,” stating he was “heartbroken and still in shock,” while Sunil Joshi described Doshi’s death as “deeply personal,” recalling a recent conversation with the late spinner, underscoring the personal connections Doshi forged throughout his life.

Here are the reactions:

A legacy beyond the international stage

Doshi’s influence extended far beyond his international appearances. He was a colossal figure in Indian domestic cricket, representing both Bengal and Saurashtra with distinction and amassing a remarkable 898 wickets in 238 first-class matches. His talent also saw him enjoy a successful county career in England, gracing the pitches for Nottinghamshire and Warwickshire. He was renowned for his unwavering pinpoint accuracy and the clever flight he imparted on the ball, earning the respect of teammates and opponents. His integrity and sportsmanship solidified his reputation as a true gentleman of the game, a legacy that will undoubtedly endure.

Doshi is survived by his wife Kalindi, his son Nayan, who himself pursued a career in first-class cricket, and his daughter Vishakha.

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ANIRUDH SINGH
Anirudh is the Head of Content at CricketTimes.com. He is a seasoned journalist and content writer with 12 years of experience in the field of cricket. With over 9,000 published articles under his belt, Anirudh brings a creative and strategic approach to his work, always striving to deliver content that resonates with audiences. A die-hard sports fan who loves playing, watching and talking about cricket. Cricket is his Religion & 'Sachin Tendulkar' his GOD. His motto of life is Eat, Sleep, Cricket, REPEAT!! You can write to him at anirudh@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.