RIP Ajit Wadekar: Nation mourns death of legendary cricketer

Former Indian captain Ajit Wadekar passed away at the age of 77 on Wednesday due to prolonged illness.

The left-hander led India to their first-ever Test series victories in England (1-0) and West Indies (1-0) in 1971.

Wadekar was the first captain to achieve a hat-trick of Test series wins as India defeated England at home 2-1 in 1972-73 after two successful tours abroad.

Sad moment for Indian cricket to lose one of its most successful captains. Shrewd to the core. Condolences to the entire family #TeamIndia #RIPAjitWadekar pic.twitter.com/0xC0fv3Ark

— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) August 15, 2018

With a heavy heart we bid adieu to Ajit Wadekar. The former India captain is no more. Cricketer, Coach, Manager and Chairman of Selectors - Mr Wadekar served Indian cricket in many different ways. pic.twitter.com/6zdFtleXB9

— BCCI (@BCCI) August 15, 2018

So many memories of Ajit Wadekar. None more powerful than leading India to series wins in 1971 in England and the West Indies. Much admired, much loved. Page in Indian cricket and in our memories.

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) August 15, 2018

The Mumbaikar made his international debut in 1966 and played 37 Tests scoring 2,113 runs with one century and 14 fifties. He was India’s first ODI captain and featured only in two 50-over internationals.

He retired in 1974 after India were whitewashed 0-3 by hosts England where the visitors were bundled out for a record low of 42 in second Test at Lord's. He was removed as captain following the humiliating loss and resulted in him quitting the game.

Later, in 1992, Wadekar was appointed as India’s manager (coach). He also served as chairman of the national selection committee. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) honoured him with CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former cricketers and fans paid rich tributes to Wadekar, on social media.

Ajit Wadekar will be remembered for his rich contribution to Indian cricket. A great batsman & wonderful captain, he led our team to some of the most memorable victories in our cricketing history. He was also respected as an effective cricket administrator. Pained by his demise.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2018

Shocked to hear about the demise of Former Captain of the Indian Cricket Team Shri Ajit Wadekar!
We lost a great cricket player, first Indian captain to achieve overseas wins, aggressive batsman and an all rounder.
My deepest condolences to his family, friends and fans! pic.twitter.com/IENDsoEmfe

— Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) August 15, 2018

Sad at the passing of Ajit Wadekar, one of Indian cricket’s finest left-handed batsman and captain during the iconic overseas test victories in 1971 in the Caribbean and England. Condolences to his family and to the cricket fraternity #PresidentKovind

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) August 15, 2018

Extremely saddened by the news that former Indian cricket captain #AjitWadekar is no more. He led India to many historic victories! My condolences to the friends & family! RIP Sir, you will always be missed!

— Suresh Raina (@ImRaina) August 15, 2018

Ajit Wadekar’s impact on Indian cricket is immense. His contemporaries worshipped him, such was his aura. Found him to be a tough character as coach. Exceptional Indian cricketer... RIP Sir.🙏
Recorded this on my iPhone last Dec from Point in a friendly fixture. So glad I did. pic.twitter.com/XbdFGn4Izp

— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) August 15, 2018