Kapil Dev, the iconic former cricketer, has appealed to the BCCI to provide financial assistance 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 emphasized the need for support from the board for Gaekwad, highlighting his contributions and sacrifices during his playing days.
Expressing sadness over the situation, Kapil Dev described it as “very distressing” and expressed confidence that the BCCI would step forward to aid his ailing colleague. The legendary World Cup-winning captain also called on cricket fans to keep Gaekwad in their prayers for a swift recovery.
“It is a sad and very depressing. I am in pain because I have played alongside Anshu and can’t bear to see him in this state. No one should suffer. I know the Board will take care of him. We are not compelling anyone.
“Any help for Anshu will have to come from your heart. He took blows on his face and chest when standing up to some of the ferocious fast bowlers. Now is the time for us to stand up for him. I am sure our cricket fans will not fail him. They should pray for his recovery,” Kapil Dev told Sportstar.
Unfortunately, we don’t have a system: Kapil Dev
Kapil Dev expressed concern over the lack of a system to aid former players during medical emergencies. The cricketing legend noted that during his playing days, financial support was scarce for the BCCI, but the situation has since improved. He emphasized the need for the board to take responsibility for former players, suggesting the establishment of a trust to provide financial assistance during emergencies. Kapil Dev also mentioned his willingness to contribute to such a cause by foregoing his pension, underscoring his commitment to supporting his fellow cricketers in times of need.
“Unfortunately, we don’t have a system. It is great to see this generation of players make good money. It is good to see the support staff members also being paid well. In our time, the Board did not have the money. Today, it has and should take care of the senior players from the past,” said Kapil Dev.
“But where do they send their contributions? If a Trust is formed, they can put their money there. But we don’t have a system. There should be a Trust. I think BCCI can do that. They do look after the players, former and present. We are ready to contribute by donating our pension amount if the family allows us to,” he added.
Gaekwad plied his trade for Team India as a player between 1975 and 1987. He played 40 Tests and 15 ODIs for India, scoring more than 2000 runs with the help of 2 centuries and 11 half-centuries. He also plied his trade as a selector and the head coach of the Indian team.
