During the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal, the Indian cricket team wore black armbands to honor Padmakar Shivalkar, who passed away at 84. A prominent figure in India’s domestic circuit, Shivalkar was instrumental in Bombay’s nine Ranji Trophy victories from 1965-66 to 1976-77. He excelled as a left-arm spinner, claiming 589 wickets in 124 first-class matches, with a remarkable average of 19.69. The BCCI expressed deep sorrow over his loss, highlighting his significant contributions to Indian cricket, particularly in Mumbai. Despite never representing India internationally, Shivalkar’s legacy endures, as reflected in his 2017 Col. C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award.
The stars of the Indian cricket team were observed donning black armbands during the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal against Australia in Dubai on Tuesday. These armbands served as a tribute to Padmakar Shivalkar, who passed away at the age of 84 in Mumbai. Shivalkar was a significant figure in India’s domestic cricket scene, contributing greatly to Bombay’s dominance in the Ranji Trophy. He was part of the Bombay team that secured nine Ranji Trophy titles between the 1965-66 and 1976-77 seasons. Following his passing, numerous former cricketers paid their respects, and the BCCI chose to honor his memory by having the players wear black armbands on their jerseys.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) expressed profound sadness over the loss of the former Ranji Trophy star and Mumbai cricket icon, Padmakar Shivalkar, who died on Monday due to age-related complications.
Shivalkar’s legacy is firmly established in the history of the Ranji Trophy, where he enjoyed a distinguished career that spanned more than two decades. Across 124 first-class matches, he took an impressive 589 wickets at an extraordinary average of 19.69.
“The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Shri Padmakar Shivalkar, who left us on March 3, 2025. The legendary left-arm spinner was a pillar of Indian domestic cricket, celebrated for his unmatched skill and unwavering dedication to the sport,” the BCCI stated in a release on Tuesday.
His skill in generating sharp turn, along with exceptional accuracy, made him a daunting challenge for opposing batsmen. His most memorable performance came during the 1972-73 Ranji Trophy final when he single-handedly dismantled Tamil Nadu, achieving figures of 8/16 and 5/18, leading Mumbai to yet another championship.
BCCI president Roger Binny paid tribute to the late spinner, remarking, “Indian cricket has lost a true legend today. Padmakar Shivalkar’s mastery of left-arm spin and his profound understanding of the game made him a revered figure in domestic cricket. His extraordinary career and selfless contributions to both Mumbai and Indian cricket will forever be cherished.”
Secretary Devajit Saikia added, “Shivalkar Sir inspired generations of cricketers. His consistency, talent, and enduring presence in the game were truly extraordinary. Though he may not have represented India, his influence on Indian cricket, particularly in Mumbai, is unmistakable.”
Despite his remarkable talent, Shivalkar was never granted the chance to play for India at the international level, as his prime coincided with that of the legendary Bishan Singh Bedi. Nevertheless, his contributions to Indian cricket were duly recognized; in 2017, he received the prestigious Col. C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his significant impact on domestic cricket.
(With IANS inputs)
Topics mentioned in this article