Former Indian spinner Dilip Doshi passes away at 77. (Photo Source: SAM PANTHAKY/AFP via Getty Images)
Former Indian left-arm spinner Dilip Doshi passed away in London on Monday (June 23) at the age of 77 due to heart-related complications.
Doshi made a late entry to international cricket, making his Test debut at the age of 32 in 1979. Despite the delayed start, his international career lasted till 1983, in which he played 33 Tests and claimed 114 wickets with six five-wicket hauls. He also featured in 15 ODIs and picked up 22 wickets at an economy of 3.96.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) condoled the former spinner's demise.
"The BCCI mourns the sad demise of former India spinner, Dilip Doshi, who has unfortunately passed away in London. May his soul rest in peace."
Former India cricketers and coaches Ravi Shastri and Anil Kumble paid their respects and expressed grief.
"Really sad to hear about the passing of Dilip Doshi. Always immaculate, a gentleman to the core and a fine, fine bowler. Heartfelt condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace," Shastri wrote on X.
Kumble wrote: "Heartbreaking to hear about Dilip bhai's passing. May God give strength to his family and friends to bear this loss. Nayan, thinking of you, buddy."
Known for his smooth classical action and his intelligent mind on the field, Doshu was described as a thinking cricketer. One of his memorable performances was in the 1981 Melbourne Test, where he claimed a five-wicket haul while playing with a broken toe.
He also enjoyed a successful domestic and county cricket career. Over 238 first-class matches for Saurashtra, Bengal, Warwickshire, and Nottinghamshire, he bagged 898 wickets at an average of 26.58, including 43 five-wicket hauls and six 10-wicket match hauls.
Doshi's autobiography, Spin Punch, provided an honest take on Indian cricket and his career. He walked away from international cricket in the mid-1980s, disappointed with the way cricket was being managed in India.
