Kapil Dev has urged the BCCI to offer financial aid to Anshuman Gaekwad, who is currently facing blood cancer. Gaekwad, 71, is being treated in London at King’s College Hospital. Several ex-cricketers, including Mohinder Amarnath, Sunil Gavaskar, Sandeep Patil, Dilip Vengsarkar, Madan Lal, Ravi Shastri, and Kirti Azad, are actively raising funds for Gaekwad’s treatment.
Kapil Dev shared his hope that the BCCI will step up to support Gaekwad financially. His words reflect a deep sense of empathy and urgency, emphasizing the painful situation Gaekwad is in. Dev highlighted the emotional bond with his former teammate and expressed his belief that the cricket community will rise to the occasion to help.
Dev’s concerns extend beyond the immediate need for financial support. He pointed out the lack of a formal system for aiding former players in such dire conditions. This issue isn’t just about generosity but about creating structured support. The contrast between the financial situation of current players and that of the older generation was mentioned. Dev suggested the creation of a Trust to manage contributions from well-wishers and former players.
Key Points:
- Kapil Dev has publicly appealed to the BCCI for financial assistance.
- Gaekwad has been undergoing treatment for a year at King’s College Hospital in London.
- Ex-cricketers are mobilizing resources to support Gaekwad.
Kapil Dev’s Statements:
- Empathy and Support: “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.”
- Call for Systematic Support: “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.”
Gaekwad’s Legacy:
Gaekwad’s contributions to cricket are significant. He served Indian cricket both as a player and as a head coach in two different periods. His journey in cricket includes playing 40 Tests and 15 ODIs for India.
The shared efforts of former teammates like Mohinder Amarnath, Sunil Gavaskar, and others showcase the close-knit nature of the cricket community. These collective actions underline the importance of fraternity and mutual support among former players.
The situation highlights a critical need for the BCCI to establish a formal mechanism to assist former players, ensuring that support is organized and continuous.