The cricketing world is deeply saddened by the demise of former India left-arm spinner Dilip Doshi, who passed away on Monday in London at the age of 77 due to a cardiac arrest. Tributes have poured in from across the globe, with cricketing icons Sachin Tendulkar and Ravi Shastri expressing their profound sorrow at the loss of a true gentleman of the game.
Sachin Tendulkar, the “Master Blaster,” shared a heartfelt tribute, recalling his early interactions with Doshi. “I met Dilipbhai for the first time in the UK in 1990, and he bowled to me in the nets on that tour. He was really fond of me, and I reciprocated his feelings,” Tendulkar posted on social media. “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.” The personal touch in Tendulkar’s message highlights the strong bond and mutual respect shared between the two cricketers.
Former India all-rounder and head coach Ravi Shastri also conveyed his grief. “Really sad to hear about the passing of Dilip Doshi. Always immaculate, a gentleman to the core and a fine, fine bowler,” Shastri wrote, extending his heartfelt condolences to Doshi’s family.
Dilip Doshi, who made his Test debut in 1979 at the age of 32, went on to carve a remarkable career, taking 114 wickets in 33 Tests and 22 wickets in 15 One-Day Internationals. Despite playing in an era often overshadowed by India’s famous spin quartet, Doshi distinguished himself with his accuracy, control, and thoughtful approach to the game. His notable performance includes a five-wicket haul in the historic 1981 Melbourne Test against Australia, achieved while bowling with a fractured toe, a testament to his grit and determination.
Beyond his international career, Doshi was a stalwart in domestic cricket, representing Bengal and Saurashtra, and also had successful stints in English County cricket with Nottinghamshire and Warwickshire. He was known as a “thinking cricketer” and his wisdom and willingness to mentor young talents were widely appreciated. His passing leaves a void in the cricketing fraternity, but his legacy as a skillful spinner and a warm-hearted individual will undoubtedly endure.