NEW DELHI: Australia captain Steve Smith won the toss and opted to field first against Team India in their ICC Champions Trophy semifinal at the Dubai International Stadium on Tuesday. Led by Rohit Sharma, the Indian team took the field wearing black armbands in front of a packed crowd at the Dubai International Stadium. The gesture was in honor of Mumbai spinner Padmakar Shivalkar, who passed away on Monday at the age of 84 due to age-related issues.
Regarded as one of the finest spinners never to have represented India at the international level, Shivalkar played 124 First-Class matches, amassing 589 wickets at an impressive average of 19.69. His career spanned from the 1961-62 season to 1987-88.
The left-arm spinner made his Ranji Trophy debut at the age of 22 and continued playing until he was 48. He was a dominant force in India’s premier domestic competition, securing 361 wickets, including eleven 10-wicket hauls. Shivalkar also featured in 12 List A matches, where he claimed 16 wickets.
In recognition of his contributions to Indian cricket, he was honored with the CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indian cricket board in 2017.
“Mumbai cricket has lost a true legend today. Padmakar Shivalkar Sir’s contribution to the game, especially as one of the finest spinners of all time, will always be remembered,” said Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) president Ajinkya Naik.
“His dedication, skill, and impact on Mumbai cricket are unparalleled. His passing is an irreplaceable loss to the cricketing fraternity. May his soul rest in peace,” he added.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also expressed its condolences on his passing.
“The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) deeply mourns the unfortunate demise of Shri Padmakar Shivalkar, who passed away on March 3, 2025. The legendary left-arm spinner was a stalwart of Indian domestic cricket, renowned for his unparalleled skill and dedication to the game,” BCCI said in a statement released on Tuesday.
