Know what Sachin Tendulkar had to say about Ajit Wadekar
What's the story
Sachin Tendulkar paid his tribute to former Indian cricketer, Ajit Wadekar, on Friday. Tendulkar was shaped as a cricketer by Wadekar in his early days and the legendary batsman said that the demise of the latter is irreparable and a personal loss. Wadekar passed away on August 15 at the age of 77 in Mumbai. Here is more on the same.
Tribute
'Wadekar a wonderful person besides being a great cricketer'
According to a report in Scroll, Sachin went on to state that, "This is an irreparable loss. I will say it is a personal loss. People know Wadekar sir as a great cricketer, but I was fortunate enough to see him as a great cricketer as well as a wonderful person." He added that over the years their relationship grew stronger.
Presence
Sachin benefited largely by the presence of Wadekar
Sachin was 20 years of age when Wadekar had coached him. The recently deceased former Indian skipper also was the major think-tank behind Sachin opening the batting in ODI cricket. Sachin claimed that he benefited largely by the presence of Ajit, back then, and their bonding reflected in the field as well.
Demise
Several sportspersons come to pay last respects
Wadekar's body was wrapped in the tricolor and kept at his Worli residence. Several former cricketers came to pay their last respects before his cremation. The cremation was performed today at the Shivaji Park with full state honors. Former India cricketers Sameer Dighe and Vinod Kambli were present alongside ex-hockey captain M M Somaiya. Present and past MCA officials were there as well.
Information
Wadekar's many roles in his career
Wadekar donned many roles during his career. He served as captain, manager, and Indian team selector. He became only the third one to do so apart from former cricketers Chandu Borde and Lala Amarnath.