March 3rd 2025.
The cricket world is mourning the loss of a true legend today as former Ranji Trophy star and Mumbai Maidan stalwart, Padmar Shivalkar, has passed away at the age of 84 due to age-related issues. The Mumbai Cricket Association announced the sad news on Monday, paying tribute to Shivalkar's incredible contribution to the game.
Born on September 14, 1940, Shivalkar was a left-arm spinner who dedicated two decades of his life to Mumbai cricket. Despite being considered one of the best players in the domestic circuit, he was never given the opportunity to represent the national team. This was mainly due to the presence of the legendary Bishan Bedi during his career. However, he did get a chance to tour with the Indian team to Sri Lanka in 1973-74, where he played in two matches and took four wickets. Although these were not considered official Test matches, it was still a proud moment for Shivalkar.
The Mumbai Cricket Association expressed their deep sorrow at the loss of Shivalkar, stating that his skill, dedication, and impact on Mumbai cricket will forever be remembered. They also acknowledged that his passing is an irreplaceable loss to the entire cricketing community. Shivalkar, affectionately known as Paddy sir in Mumbai cricket, played a total of 124 First-class matches and retired at the age of 50. During his career, he claimed a whopping 569 wickets at an average of 19.69, with an impressive 43 five-wicket hauls and 13 instances of taking 10 wickets in a match. His best bowling figures of 8-16 came against Tamil Nadu during the 1972-73 Ranji Trophy season. He still holds the record for being the highest wicket-taker for Mumbai in domestic cricket.
The news of Shivalkar's demise has also deeply affected the political community in Maharashtra, with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressing his condolences on social media. He wrote that the former Mumbai cricketer's passing is a great loss to the world of cricket and that he will always be remembered for his exceptional left-arm orthodox bowling. He also prayed for Shivalkar's soul to rest in peace and for his family and fans to find the strength to overcome this grief.
Former Karnataka and Indian pacer Dodda Ganesh also paid tribute to Shivalkar, calling him one of the greatest cricketers who should have played for India. He acknowledged that despite not getting the opportunity to represent his country, Shivalkar's contribution to the game is immense and that he will always be a legend in the world of cricket.
In 2016, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) honored Shivalkar with the C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest recognition given to a former player. This was a testament to his remarkable skills and dedication to the sport.
The cricketing community will always remember Padmar Shivalkar as a true legend and an inspiration to many young players. His passing has left a void that can never be filled, but his legacy will continue to live on. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Paddy sir.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
