Former India cricketer Chetan Chauhan passes away

Former India cricketer and now the politician Chetan Chauhan passed away on Sunday. Reports had surfaced on Saturday that he was on life support and unfortunately, he breathed his last on August 16. He had tested positive for COVID-19 in July and was since then being treated first at the Sanjay Gandhi PGI Hospital in Lucknow and then in Gurugram’s Medanta hospital.

The 73-year-old was a Cabinet Minister in the Uttar Pradesh Government and his condition had worsened after he developed multi-organ failure on Saturday. And only after the other complications developed, he was moved from SPGI to Medanta Hospital.

The news of Chetan Chauhan passing away was confirmed by News18 even as the senior DDCA official had said on Saturday that his condition was extremely critical. “Early morning today, Chetan ji had a kidney failure and subsequently, had multi-organ failure. He is currently on life support. We are all praying that he wins this battle,” a senior DDCA official, who is keeping track of the development,” he said while speaking to media on Saturday.

Chetan Chauhan played 40 Tests for India

Chetan Chauhan played 40 Tests and 7 ODIs for India during his 12-year international career. He scored 2084 runs in the longest form of the game with 16 half-centuries at an average of 31.57. He didn’t have great memories of playing in the limited-overs format. Chauhan was known for exemplary opening partnership with Sunil Gavaskar. One of the most memorable moments of his career was the duo’s 213-run opening stand at The Oval in 1979.

Apart from his international achievements, Chetan Chauhan played a whopping 179 matches at the first-class level. He amassed 11143 runs with 21 tons and 59 fifties at an average of 40.22. This shows he was a heavy scorer in the domestic arena while representing Delhi and Maharashtra in Ranji Trophy competition.

After hanging his boots from the game officially, he served the Delhi and Districts Cricket Association (DDCA) as the president, vice-president, secretary and chief selector as well. He was also Team India’s manager on their tour to Australia once.

Shri Chetan Chauhan Ji distinguished himself as a wonderful cricketer and later as a diligent political leader. He made effective contributions to public service and strengthening the BJP in UP. Anguished by his passing away. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 16, 2020

My deepest condolences to the family and well wishers. #ChetanChauhan ji #omshanti

— Pragyan Ojha (@pragyanojha) August 16, 2020

Saddened to hear about the demise of Chetan Chauhan ji. His contribution to the game as well as to administration will always be remembered! May god give strength to his family & loved ones! pic.twitter.com/6dvIlqZ7ke

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) August 16, 2020

My deep condolences to Chetan Chauhan's family and well wishers on his passing. Om Shanti !

— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) August 16, 2020

Saddened to hear the passing of Chetan Chauhan. Fondly remember our conversations on the 2007/8 tour of Australia. Heartfelt condolences to his family. 🙏🏽

— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) August 16, 2020

Saddened by the demise of indian test player #ChetanChauhan ji. Extending my condolences to his family. #rip

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) August 16, 2020

Very sad news , heartfelt condolences to the family n prayers for Chetan ji .Om shanti 🙏🙏 https://t.co/C3ioRNaWFf

— Mithun Manhas (@MithunManhas) August 16, 2020