Former India Cricketer, Coach and administrator Anshuman Gaekwad released his book ‘Guts Amidst Bloodbath’ at the hands of legendary Cricketer Sunil Gavaskar at C.K. Naidu Hall, CCI today evening. Many former cricketers were present on this occasion, prominent among them were Kapil Dev, Dilip Vengsarkar, Roger Binny, G.R. Vishvanath, Karsan Ghavri, Bharat Reddy, Nayan Mongia, Ravi Shastri, Yajuvendra Singh, Zahir Khan and Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar with his wife Anjali.
Speaking on this occasion chief guest Sunil Gavaskar recalled his association with Anshuman Gaekwad and mentioned about his rise from Lower order batsman to Opening batsman along with him. In his humour filled speech the legendary cricketer was all praise for his former opening partner and wished him all the best. Sunil and Vishwanath have written the foreward of this book.
Others who spoke on this occasion were Dilip Vengsarkar, Roger Binny, G.R.Vishwanath, Ravi Shastri, Zahir Khan and Sachin Tendulkar. They all praised him for his contribution to the game of cricket sincerely in whichever capacity he offered his services to Indian cricket, be it as a player, Coach and administrator. Finally, Anshuman Gaekwad spoke about his experience with the game of cricket for the past 55 years, eversince he began playing cricket and his rise in this field. He appreciated the role played by media during his time as a player and as an administrator. He thanked all the six captains of India and others for attending this event at his request. But, before that video clippings of Anshuman seeking blessings of his old parents were shown. His father Dattajirao Gaekwad former India Captain is 95 today.
It may be recalled that Anshuman Gaekwad made his debut for India in 1974 against West Indies, as a lower order batsman to take the place of Nawab Of Pataudi, who was injured in this game, with his blood spilled on the wicket. The book is therefore suitably titled ‘Guts Amidst Bloodbath’. He was later promoted as Opening batsman along with Sunil Gavaskar, looking at his performance against West Indies. His magnificent innings of 82, before retiring hurt, is a testament to his bravery and courage, during the infamous Bodyline series. He was the preferred choice against West Indies, having played 22 out of 40 test matches he played for India.
This 250 pages book is narrated by Anshuman gaekwad and written by Aditya Bhushan and edited by Sachin Bajaj for Publishers Global Cricket School. ( Price of this book : Rs.699/-)
( All Photos by Ulhas Shirke)