“Mumbai cricket mourns the loss of Milind Rege, a former captain and selector, with Sunil Gavaskar sharing a heartfelt tribute to his friend and fellow cricketing icon.”,
A Giant of Mumbai Cricket is Gone
The Indian cricket world is deeply saddened by the passing of Milind Rege, a former Mumbai captain and highly respected selector. At 76, Rege leaves behind a legacy of unwavering commitment and exceptional talent, impacting countless lives within the sport.
His passing has prompted an outpouring of grief, particularly from cricketing greats like Sunil Gavaskar, who shared a long and close friendship with Rege.
Sunil Gavaskar’s Poignant Remembrance
Sunil Gavaskar, a legendary cricketer himself, expressed profound sorrow, sharing personal anecdotes about his enduring friendship with Rege. Their bond, forged during childhood and continuing through school, college, and a shared love for cricket, highlights the deep respect Gavaskar held for his friend.
Gavaskar recalled their last meeting—a hospital visit just before Gavaskar’s departure for a cricket engagement—painting a poignant picture of their enduring connection.\n\n
A Stellar Career on and Off the Field
\n\nRege’s playing career, spanning from 1966 to 1978, was marked by consistent excellence for Mumbai. He often stepped up when the team needed him most, showcasing unwavering reliability. His impressive statistics—126 wickets and 1532 runs—speak volumes about his all-round abilities as an off-spin bowler and batsman. Remarkably, he overcame a heart attack at 26, demonstrating incredible resilience and unwavering passion for the game. Beyond his playing days, Rege served the Mumbai Cricket Association as a selector and administrator, further showcasing his dedication to cricket’s future.
A Mentor and Visionary
Rege’s impact extended far beyond statistics. His keen eye for talent enabled him to identify and nurture promising cricketers at all levels. This ability is underscored by tributes from Sachin Tendulkar, who acknowledged Rege’s crucial role in his development. Rege’s influence spanned beyond Mumbai, inspiring players and administrators across the nation.
A Community Mourns
A moment of silence during the Ranji Trophy match between Mumbai and Vidarbha served as a fitting tribute to Rege’s contributions. The Mumbai team wore black armbands, a powerful symbol of their respect and affection for their former captain and mentor. This outpouring of grief from across the cricketing community shows just how deeply Rege will be missed.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Milind Rege’s passing marks a significant loss for Indian cricket. However, his unwavering dedication, remarkable talent, and lasting influence will continue to inspire future generations.
His story serves as a reminder of the power of passion, perseverance, and the profound impact one individual can have on the world of sport. He will be remembered not only as a cricketing legend but also as a beloved friend and mentor. “