The world of cricket is filled with numerous partnerships and friendships that go beyond the boundary ropes, transcending from mere professional acquaintances to deep, personal bonds. One such story is that of the legendary camaraderie between Gundappa Viswanath, affectionately known as ‘Vishy,’ and Anshuman Gaekwad, often referred to as ‘Aunshu.’ The duo not only formed a formidable pair on the cricket field but also forged a friendship that stood the test of time and adversities.
“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…,” Viswanath’s voice, filled with grief, comes through a clear telephone line from Vadodara. The sense of loss in his voice is palpable, reflecting the depth of their relationship.
The genesis of their friendship began on a cricket pitch when young Anshuman Gaekwad made his Test debut against the formidable West Indies on New Year’s Day in 1975 at Eden Gardens. Vishy stood at the non-striker’s end, witnessing what would become a hallmark of Gaekwad’s career—resilience and courage. “There was blood on the pitch,” Viswanath recalls. “Andy Roberts had struck captain MAK ‘Tiger’ Pataudi on the face, forcing him to leave the field. Aunshu was 21 then, facing an aggressive West Indian attack. He showed no signs of fear, and it was clear that his wicket had to be earned. That’s how he played his cricket for the rest of his career.”
This inaugural test wasn’t just memorable for Gaekwad’s baptism by fire; it was the start of a significant chapter for the Indian cricket team. Vishy and Gaekwad put together a valuable 75-run partnership, with India eventually winning the match by 85 runs. Viswanath scored a magnificent 139 in the second innings, a performance he considers one of his finest, while Gaekwad, true to his style, stood firm until spin undid him twice.
Viswanath fondly remembers Gaekwad not just for his batting resilience but as an epitome of grit and tenacity. “Everyone has spoken about how courageous and gutsy Aunshu was with the bat. Opening for India, Sunil [Gavaskar] stood head and shoulders above everyone, but Aunshu had a different kind of valor. You could try every trick in the book, and he wouldn’t be moved.”
One of the ultimate tests of Gaekwad’s fortitude came during the infamous ‘Bloodbath of Kingston’ in 1976. India had registered a stunning victory in Port of Spain, amassing a record 406 for 4. The West Indies, led by Michael Holding, responded with fiery bouncers and beamers, making the next Test a grueling examination. “Through that barrage, Aunshu batted like a champion,” Viswanath recounts. “He took blows all over his body but didn’t flinch.
. The attacks on his fingers and ribcage couldn’t dislodge him until a lifter from Holding hit his left ear, forcing him to retire hurt at 81 not out. That innings was worth more than any century I have seen. It was pure valor.”
While cricket brought them together, their bond surpassed the sport. “We got close, really close,” Viswanath says, his voice cracking with emotion. “Aunshu was an absolute gentleman, with wonderful manners, a great host, and an excellent sense of humor. Our families, particularly our wives, Jyoti and Kavita, were inseparable. Kavita looked up to Aunshu as her older brother, and the void his absence has left is indescribable.”
Their last encounter was at the BCCI annual awards function in Hyderabad. “It was a very brief meeting,” Viswanath notes. “Aunshu said he felt a bit tired and wanted to rest. We had planned to meet the following morning, but it didn’t happen. I never thought he would leave us so soon. It’s a significant loss to the cricket fraternity, but for me, it’s a deeply personal one.”
Tributes and messages of condolence have poured in from all corners of the globe, including heartfelt messages from the bowlers Gaekwad faced with unwavering resolve. “Mikey [Holding] sent a moving message,” Vishy shares, pride evident in his voice. “So many former bowlers from England, Australia, and Pakistan, against whom Aunshu played, have paid their respects. It just shows what a wonderful human being he was. The world knows the cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad, but I was fortunate to know the man.”
Gaekwad’s life was steeped in cricket, but his legacy extends beyond the field. “Aunshu was warm, generous, and eternally positive. He faced every adversity with a smile and was grateful for everything life gave him. His aristocratic background never defined him; he was at ease in any setting, whether with royalty or the common man. He will always hold a special place in my heart.”
As the cricketing world mourns, Viswanath finds solace in the enduring bond they shared. “Rest well, my friend. The family bond and friendship we have will continue forever.”