Name Hindi: -अंशुमन गायकवाड़ / Gender Coach
Anshuman Gaekwad
Anshuman Dattajirao Gaekwad, also known as Anshuman Gaekwad, is a former cricket player from India who has contributed greatly to the sport. Born on 23rd September 1952 in Baroda during the Holkar era, he slowly but steadily rose through the ranks of Indian Cricket.
Early Life and Career
Gaekwad was born into a royal family with their roots dating back to the princely state of Baroda. He had his first touch with cricket at a very early age and soon discovered his passion for it. His early cricket years were marked by vigorous practice sessions which laid the foundation stone for his future achievements.
- In 1974, Anshuman Gaekwad made his debut in Test cricket against West Indies.
- In 1985, he retired from international cricket after playing his final test match against England.
- He served as an opener pair alongside Sunil Gavaskar and earned himself recognition for facing fast bowlers courageously despite suffering multiple injuries.
- Gaekwad has played a total of 40 tests matches scoring 1,985 runs including two centuries and ten half-centuries.
Career Highlights
One of the defining moments of Gaekwad’s career was undoubtedly his performance in Jamaica against West Indies during the 1976 tour. Despite being struck multiple times by brutal bouncers from Michael Holding, he held his ground and scored a memorable century. This innings effectively changed the perception towards him making him renowned as one of India’s bravest and most reliable batsmen.
- Gaekwad had his highest Test score of 201 runs against Pakistan in Jalandhar, during the 1982-83 series.
- Being a right-handed opening batsman, he made significant contributions towards building solid opening partnerships with cricketer Sunil Gavaskar.
Post Retirement Involvements
Even after bidding goodbye to international cricket as a player, Gaekwad did not leave the world of cricket. He turned into an all-around cricketing personality showcasing his abilities as a coach and an administrator.
- In 1997, he was appointed as the coach of the Indian Cricket team serving until 2000.
- Under Gaekwad’s guidance, India lifted the prestigious ‘Asian Test Championships’ trophy in 1999 beating Sri Lanka.
- Beyond coaching, Anshuman Gaekwad has also served as a member of Indian cricket board selectors panel.
In conclusion, Anshuman Gaekwad is considered one of the strongest pillars of Indian cricket history who displayed immense grit and determination throughout his remarkable career. He continues to be revered for both his contribution on-field and off it fully justifying his stature in Indian cricket.
