Legendary Indian domestic cricketer, Padmakar Shivalkar, passed away at the age of 84. He breathed his last in Mumbai on March 3, 2025, due to age-related ailments. Shivalkar was one of those unfortunate stars of Indian cricket who created history in domestic cricket but never got the opportunity to represent India at the international level.
Over 500 Wickets, Yet No International Debut
Left-arm spinner Padmakar Shivalkar began his career in the Ranji Trophy in 1961-62 and played for Mumbai until 1987-88. In his 124 first-class matches, Shivalkar took 589 wickets at a remarkable average of 19.69. He achieved the feat of taking five wickets in an innings 42 times and 10 wickets in a match 13 times.
However, fate never favored him, and he never played Test or ODI cricket for India. The presence of prominent spinners like Vishwanath Viswanath and Bishan Singh Bedi in the Indian team during the 1970s prevented him from securing a national team berth.
Historic Success in the Ranji Trophy
His performance in the 1972-73 Ranji Trophy final is etched in Indian cricket history. In that match, he took 8 wickets for 16 runs and 5 wickets for 18 runs, leading Mumbai (then Bombay) to victory against Tamil Nadu. For his unparalleled contribution to domestic cricket, the BCCI honored him with the C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.
Sunil Gavaskar and MCA Express Grief
Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar expressed his sorrow at Shivalkar's passing, saying, "Mumbai cricket has lost another priceless gem. Recently we lost Milind Rege, and now Shivalkar has left us. Both were instrumental in many historic victories for Mumbai cricket."
The President of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), Ajinkya Naik, also expressed deep grief, stating, "Padmakar Shivalkar's contribution to the game is unparalleled. He was one of the best spinners in Indian cricket. His dedication to Mumbai cricket and his skill in the game will always be remembered. His death is an irreplaceable loss to the cricketing world."
The Indian cricket world is mourning the passing of Shivalkar. His contemporaries and cricket fans are paying their tributes on social media. Although he didn't wear the Indian jersey, his achievements in domestic cricket will always be remembered.
