'Yaar Anshuman, thoda kam teekha khao' - Zaheer Abbas recalls fond memories with Late Anshuman Gaekwad

Former India cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad succumbed to blood cancer at the age of 71 on July 31, 2024. BCCI had released aid of 1 crore for his treatment during his hospitalisation but the veteran breathed his last in Baroda. Former Pakistan cricketer Zaheer Abbas, who has played significant cricket with Gaekwad, recalled his food habits and their camaraderie off the field.

Gaekwad has played 40 Tests for India and has scored 1985 runs, but his marathon innings against Pakistan at Burlton Park in Jalandhar in September 1983, is his most talked-about knock. He batted for 671 minutes, making his double century one of the slowest in Tests, while chasing Pakistan’s 337 first-innings score. Abbas, who was captaining the Pakistan team, called Gaekwad’s batting an "enviable sound technique".

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“I remember how we would talk about our local cuisine and Anshuman was always ready to try out different items. He loved spicy food, so much so that there were times when I had to even tell him ‘ ke yaar Aunshuman, thoda kam teekha khao, kal khelna bhi hai, pet kharab nahi hona chahiye (have less spicy food, you need to play tomorrow and you can’t afford to have a stomach bug). But then, the moment we had food on the plate, we would polish it off in no time. We enjoyed the flavours and the spice,” said Abbas as quoted by Sportstar.

“And, when someone bats for more than 11 hours (671 minutes) at ease then that speaks volumes about his abilities and skills. Aunshuman was incredibly talented and had an enviable sound technique and that was one of the reasons why it was a treat to watch him bat,” he added.

Shocking to know that someone as fit as him could be diagnosed with cancer: Abbas

For the unversed, Gaekwad has held the position of the Indian coach and national selector and was diligently connected with the cricket. Gaekwad was diagnosed with blood cancer in July last year and he had travelled to England for treatment. Abbas mentioned that he made sure he was in touch with his old friend during the tough times and was in contact with him.

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“It was shocking to know that someone as fit as him could be diagnosed with cancer. But he fought till the end. I lost a dear friend and I will cherish our conversations and will always remember his unwavering love for the game. Travel well, Aunshuman...” Abbas concluded.