Kapil Dev Urges BCCI To Aid Anshuman Gaekwad In Cancer Battle

Kapil Dev, India's 1983 World Cup-winning captain, has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to financially support his former teammate Anshuman Gaekwad. Gaekwad, who has served Indian cricket as both a player and head coach, is currently battling blood cancer.

Gaekwad has been undergoing treatment for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) at King's College Hospital in London for the past year. The 71-year-old is also receiving chemotherapy at a private hospital in Vadodara. His condition requires him to rest and avoid potential infections.

Kapil Dev expressed his distress over Gaekwad's situation, stating, "It is 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."

Kapil Dev is confident that the BCCI will provide financial assistance to Gaekwad but also called on fans to help. "We are not compelling anyone. Any help for Anshu will have to come from your heart," he said. He highlighted Gaekwad's bravery during his playing days, standing up to fast bowlers.

Former teammates like Mohinder Amarnath, Sunil Gavaskar, Sandeep Patil, Dilip Vengsarkar, Madan Lal, Ravi Shastri, and Kirti Azad are also working to generate funds for Gaekwad's treatment. Kapil Dev mentioned that some former players are even willing to donate their pension amounts.

Lack of Support System

Kapil Dev pointed out the absence of a system to support former cricketers financially. "Unfortunately, we don't have a system. It is great to see this generation of players make good money," he said. He added that the current board has the resources and should take care of senior players from the past.

Sandeep Patil revealed in his column for Mid-Day that Gaekwad informed him about his need for financial support during a meeting at King's College Hospital in London. Patil wrote, "Anshu told me that he needs funds for his treatment."

BCCI's Response

Dilip Vengsarkar and Sandeep Patil spoke to BCCI treasurer Ashish Shelar about Gaekwad's situation after seeing him at the hospital in London. Patil mentioned that Shelar assured them he would look into their request for funds.

"I'm sure he will facilitate this and save Anshu's life," Patil wrote. He emphasized that any cricketer from any country should be helped by their board, but Gaekwad's case should be treated as paramount.

The cricket community hopes that with collective efforts from fans and former players, along with BCCI’s intervention, Anshuman Gaekwad will receive the necessary financial support for his treatment.