Kapil Dev, deeply moved, appeals to BCCI; offers pension for Anshuman Gaekwad’s medical care

Anshuman Gaekwad, who represented India in 40 Tests and 15 ODIs from 1975 to 1987 and later served as India’s head coach on two occasions, is currently battling blood cancer and undergoing treatment.

India’s World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev has appealed to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to extend financial support to his former teammate Anshuman Gaekwad, who is battling blood cancer. Gaekwad, aged 71, has been undergoing treatment at King’s College Hospital in London for the past year. Kapil Dev disclosed that their mutual teammates such as Mohinder Amarnath, Sunil Gavaskar, Sandeep Patil, Dilip Vengsarkar, Madan Lal, Ravi Shastri, and Kirti Azad are actively raising funds for Gaekwad’s medical expenses. Kapil expressed confidence that the BCCI will address the situation and provide financial assistance to the former India head coach.

“It’s distressing and deeply saddening. Anshu and I have played together, and seeing him in this condition pains me. No one should have to endure such hardships. I trust that the Board will step up to support him. We aren’t forcing anyone; any aid for Anshu should come from the heart. He faced brutal fast bowlers, taking blows to his face and chest. Now is our chance to stand up for him. I’m certain our cricket fans won’t let him down. Let’s all pray for his recovery,” Kapil Dev shared with Sportstar.

The legendary all-rounder lamented the absence of a structured support system for former players like Anshuman. Kapil also expressed willingness to forfeit his pension if circumstances don’t improve.

“Unfortunately, there isn’t a proper system in place. It’s heartening to see today’s players earning well and even the support staff being adequately compensated. Back in our time, the Board didn’t have the resources. Today, they do, and they should take care of our senior players from the past. The question remains: where do they channel their contributions? Establishing a Trust could be the solution; the BCCI could facilitate this. They do look after both former and current players. If the family permits, we’re prepared to contribute our pension,” he added.

Gaekwad’s cricketing legacy is substantial, having represented India in 40 Tests and 15 ODIs between 1975 and 1987, followed by two terms as India’s head coach.