The Indian cricket team, currently playing the third Test against England at Rajkot, will be paying tribute to the late Dattajirao Gaekwad by wearing black arm bands. Gaekwad, former India captain and the country’s oldest Test cricketer, passed away on February 13. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced this gesture ahead of day three’s play.
Dattajirao Gaekwad played 11 Tests for India between 1952 and 1961 and captained the team during the 1959 tour of England. With 350 Test runs at an average of 18.42, Gaekwad left a lasting impact on Indian cricket. In domestic cricket, he represented Baroda from 1947 to 1961, scoring 5788 runs at an average of 36.40 and hitting 17 centuries. Gaekwad’s leadership also led Baroda to a Ranji Trophy win in the 1957-58 season.
After Gaekwad’s demise, the title of the oldest living Test cricketer from India now belongs to C Gopinath at 93 years and 353 days. Meanwhile, England will resume day three from 207/2 with a deficit of 238 against India. Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who took his 500th Test wicket on day two, pulled out of the remainder of the match due to a family medical emergency.
The gesture by the Indian team to honor the late Dattajirao Gaekwad reflects the respect and appreciation for his contributions to Indian cricket. As the players take to the field wearing black arm bands, it will be a poignant moment for the team, fans, and the entire cricketing community.
Dattajirao Gaekwad’s legacy as a cricketer and a leader continues to inspire future generations, and his impact on the sport will always be remembered. This small but meaningful tribute from the Indian team serves as a reminder of his enduring influence and the mark he left on the game.
