I don’t understand who could spread such a rumor: Farokh Engineer

Just a couple of days after the world was treated to a shock following the hoax of the death of Farokh Engineer, the former Indian wicketkeeper was himself very shocked at hearing such rumors. Speaking to Mid-Day, the 78-year old Engineer said that he did not understand why someone would spread such things as well as stating that he was alive and well.

Farokh Engineer joins Abid Ali to become the second player from the Ajit Wadekar side to have his death rumor circulated. Engineer and Abid Ali were part of the Indian side to clinch a series win over England in their first ever series win on English soil. In fact, Engineer was carried on a few Indian shoulders following the win at the Oval in 1971.

Based in Manchester, the former Indian custodian reportedly on the receiving end of a plethora of phone calls following his death rumor. He also mentioned that he received a few calls from India, England, as well as the United States.

Then, 24 hours later, he revealed that he got at least 100 calls from India, America, and England. “I don’t understand who could spread such a rumor,” said Engineer, quickly looking at the funny side of things.

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“A friend of mine called, and when he heard my voice, he asked whether it was really me. I responded by saying, ‘no, it’s my ghost you are listening to,” said Engineer with a chuckle.

Former Mumbai skipper, Shishir Hattangadi turned to Facebook to convince the cricket fraternity that Engineer was in good shape “Dear friends, this news doing the rounds of Farokh Engineer is a hoax. Farokh is fine. Please defuse all rumors on Farokh.”

“At least, I am in good company,” remarked Engineer. “Friends, I am alive and kicking. I am very well and let me tell you I don’t even need viagra at 78.”

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