What began as an on-field alliance between two skilled cricketers evolved into a friendship etched in time. Gundappa Viswanath and Anshuman Gaekwad weren’t merely teammates for India; their bond transcended the boundary ropes and infiltrated their personal lives. The news of Gaekwad’s passing has left Viswanath grappling with an unparalleled sense of loss.
“I just returned from Aunshu’s house, and I am still struggling to accept that I will never see him again. Visiting his home without him there is a reality I never thought I’d face,” said Viswanath, his voice quivering with emotion as he spoke from Vadodara.
The origins of their storied connection date back to New Year’s Day, 1975. Viswanath was at the non-striker’s end when Gaekwad made his Test debut against the formidable West Indies at Eden Gardens. “There was blood on the pitch,” Viswanath recalled. “Andy Roberts had hit Tiger [MAK Pataudi] on his face, forcing him to retire hurt. To witness such a sight at 21, and yet show no visible signs of fear, spoke volumes about Aunshu’s mental fortitude.”
India, precariously placed at 94 for 4, faced a menacing attack led by Roberts, Bernard Julien, and Vanburn Holder. Despite his evident youth and nerves, Gaekwad exuded an assured presence at the crease. “Within no time, I knew that Aunshu wouldn’t give his wicket away easily. His wicket had to be earned, and that became his hallmark throughout his career,” Viswanath elaborated. The duo’s 75-run partnership was vital in steering India to an eventual 85-run victory.
Viswanath’s glorious 139 in the second innings of that match is etched in cricketing folklore, but he is equally quick to laud Gaekwad’s tenacity. Although Gaekwad fell to spin in both innings—a rare occurrence against the pace-dominated West Indies—his contributions were invaluable.
Gaekwad’s courage, particularly against the hostile West Indies attack during the infamous ‘Bloodbath of Kingston’ in 1976, is the stuff of legends. The series took a brutal turn following India’s record-breaking chase in Port of Spain. “Michael Holding led their attack, and they bowled more bouncers and beamers than I care to remember,” said Viswanath. “We were angry with the umpires for their inaction, but Aunshu batted like a champion through it all.”
For more than seven and a half hours, Gaekwad faced a barrage of bouncers, suffering blows to his fingers and ribcage but refusing to flinch. “It eventually took a nasty lifter from Holding, striking his left ear, to force him off the field.
. That 81 not out is easily worth more than a century. I have never witnessed a more courageous innings,” Viswanath noted.
While cricket introduced them, their bond flourished off the field. “We shared many wonderful moments together,” said Viswanath, recalling Gaekwad’s impeccable manners, keen listening skills, and a sharp sense of humor. The ties between their families grew equally strong. “Our wives, Jyoti and Kavita, bonded immediately. Kavita considered Aunshu her elder brother. To see Jyoti without Aunshu by her side was heart-wrenching.”
Their final meeting was a poignant reflection of their closeness. In Hyderabad earlier this year for the BCCI awards function, Gaekwad mentioned feeling tired and expressed a wish to catch up the following morning, an opportunity that fate cruelly denied.
In the wake of Gaekwad’s passing, messages of condolence have poured in from around the world, including former adversaries. “Mikey [Michael Holding] sent a heartfelt message, among others,” Viswanath shared. “Tributes have come from bowlers all over—from England, Australia, Pakistan—all reflecting on Aunshu’s resilience at the crease and his incredible human spirit.”
Reflecting on Gaekwad’s multifaceted personality, Viswanath highlighted his ability to adapt and thrive in varied settings. “He was an aristocrat by birth, and he could blend in seamlessly with royalty or commoners. He was generous, optimistic, and met every challenge with a smile. His man-management and tactical acumen are well-documented, but he was more than just about cricket.”
For Viswanath, Gaekwad’s legacy extends beyond the cricket field. “He was a special part of my life and will remain so. Rest well, my friend,” he said tearfully. “The family bond and friendship we share will continue, bridging the gap left by your untimely departure.”
Viswanath’s words resonate deeply within the cricketing fraternity, capturing the essence of a friendship that began on the cricket field but flourished across life’s many innings.