What began as a seeming ordinary batting partnership on the cricket field evolved into an enduring friendship marked by mutual respect and camaraderie. The relationship between Gundappa Viswanath and Anshuman Gaekwad is not only a testament to their prowess on the pitch but also an inspiring tale of personal bonds transcending professional realms. More than just teammates, the two shared a connection that resonates deeply within the cricketing fraternity.
“I returned from Aunshu’s house just now, and I still can’t reconcile myself to the fact that I won’t see him ever again. To go to his home when he is no longer with us, I never thought I’d see that day,” said Viswanath, his voice thick with emotion as he spoke through a telephone line from Vadodara. Viswanath, or ‘Vishy’ as he is affectionately known, was at the non-striker’s end when Gaekwad made his debut against West Indies at the Eden Gardens on New Year’s Day, 1975.
Recalling the challenging circumstances of Gaekwad’s debut, Viswanath shared, “There was blood on the pitch.” The blood came from skipper MAK ‘Tiger’ Pataudi, who had been hit by a bouncer from Andy Roberts, forcing him off the field. At this precarious point, India was 94 for 4 against a formidable West Indies attack featuring Roberts, Bernard Julien, and Vanburn Holder.
“Aunshu was only 21, and I am sure he must have been a little tense and nervous,” Viswanath remarked. “But once he settled into his stance, all I saw was an assured presence at the crease. Within no time, I knew that Aunshu wouldn’t give his wicket away, it had to be earned. And that’s how he played his cricket for the rest of his career.”
In that historic match, Viswanath and Gaekwad formed a crucial partnership of 75 runs for the fifth wicket, contributing significantly to India’s eventual 85-run victory. Viswanath scored a remarkable 139 runs in the second innings—a performance he ranks among his best—while Gaekwad fell prey to spin bowling in both innings, a rarity in matches against the West Indies.
Beyond batting, it was Gaekwad’s courage and resolve that stood out. “Everyone has spoken about how courageous and gutsy Aunshu was with the bat,” Viswanath reminisced, reflecting on situations where Gaekwad’s bravery was clearly evident. One such occasion was the “Bloodbath of Kingston” in 1976, following India’s record 406 for 4 win at Port of Spain. Facing a relentless attack led by Michael Holding, Gaekwad displayed extraordinary grit.
“They bowled not just many bouncers an over, but also more than the odd beamer,” Viswanath recalled, expressing the frustration felt towards the umpires for failing to intervene. Gaekwad withstood the barrage for over seven and a half hours, taking numerous hits on his body but refusing to be cowed. He finally retired hurt after a lifter from Holding struck him on the left ear.
. “That 81 not out was worth more than a century. I haven’t seen a more courageous knock in my entire association with cricket,” marveled Viswanath.
Their bond transcended the cricket field, becoming a deep-rooted friendship. “We got close, really close,” Viswanath said, describing Gaekwad as an “absolute gentleman” with “wonderful manners, a great host, excellent listener, and a terrific sense of humor.” Their families were also tightly knit; their wives, Jyoti and Kavita, formed a close friendship as well, adding to the depth of their connection. “Kavita has never been this affected by a loss. She considered Aunshu her older brother,” Viswanath shared.
Their last meeting took place in Hyderabad in January during the annual BCCI awards function. It was a brief encounter where Gaekwad expressed fatigue and intended to rest, disrupting plans to meet the following morning. “I never thought he would leave us like this. It’s a great loss to the cricketing fraternity and a deep personal loss for me,” Viswanath mourned.
Tributes have since poured in from all corners of the globe, a testament to the immense respect Gaekwad commanded. Various bowlers, including Michael Holding, who had battled Gaekwad’s resilience, sent heartfelt messages. “There have been wonderful words from so many other bowlers from England, Australia, Pakistan,” Viswanath remarked, his pride evident. “It just goes to show what a wonderful human being he was. I feel fortunate that I got to know him so well.”
Gaekwad’s legacy extends beyond his cricketing exploits. “Aunshu was warm, generous, eternally giving, and forever grateful,” Viswanath spoke fondly. Known for his man-management and tactical skills, Gaekwad’s aristocratic birth made him comfortable in any setting, whether royal or ordinary. “He was, and will always remain, a very special part of my life,” Viswanath continued.
“Rest well, my friend,” concluded Viswanath, “and be assured that the family bond and friendship we share will always continue.”