On Monday, former Mumbai batsman and Indian cricketer Madhav Apte, aged 86, passed away at the Breach Candy Hospital in the morning. Throughout his international career, Apte played seven Tests for India in the early 1950s, five of which came in and against West Indies.
The Mumbai batsman scored 542 runs at an average of 49.27 for India, out of which, two centuries (the highest score of 163) in the two Port-of-Spain matches - against a bowling attack that had Frank King, Gerry Gomez, Frank Worrell, Alf Valentine, and Sonny Ramadhin.
Surprisingly, despite such a successful series in West Indies, Apte was never picked to play for India again.
Being a consistent performer for Mumbai, Apte had featured in 67 first-class matches. Amongst which, three of his appearances were for Bengal. Apte had risen to fame after making his way through the strong age-group system in the city and delivering notable performances in school tournaments like Giles Shield as well as University-level tournaments.
Apte also served as the President of the famous Cricket Club of India (CCI) in Mumbai. During his tenure, he is said to have played a key role in a significant decision taken at the club in the 1987-88 - tweaking the strict age-limit rules at the club to accommodate a 15-year-old Sachin Tendulkar to represent the club as a player.
Meanwhile, tributes poured for the batting giant from Mumbai:
Deeply saddened by the demise of Madhav Apte sir. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) September 23, 2019
He had a test average touching 50 despite not getting enough opportunities. Played active cricket till he was 71. A legend of Mumbai and Indian cricket passed away today. You will be missed Madhav Apte sir. #MadhavApte #rip pic.twitter.com/cDoOTXBQWm
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) September 23, 2019
At a loss of words, hearing about the passing away of Madhav Apte Sir.
— VINOD KAMBLI (@vinodkambli349) September 23, 2019
I knew him as a kid and looked up to him for advice. He always motivated me and pushed me to do well.
Both me and my father had the privilege of playing cricket with him.
May your soul Rest in Peace Sir!🙏 pic.twitter.com/Z77PL9sFDu
One of India’s oldest test cricketers, Madhav Apte ji was a gentleman cricketer who pioneered India Cricket in its infancy. He was the legend who inspired a generation of young cricketers, grooming the future Team India. RIP!
— Vinod Tawde (@TawdeVinod) September 23, 2019
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