Board of Control for Cricket in India president Sourav Ganguly has paid rich tribute to the legend of Indian domestic cricket Rajinder Goel. Ganguly termed him a “giant of domestic cricket”.
The most successful first class bowler who could never represent India – left-arm spinner Rajinder Goel was often described as the one to have born in wrong era. The veteran of 750 first class wickets, the 77-year-old Goel breathed his last in Rohtak on Sunday after a prolonged illness.
“The Indian cricketing community has lost a giant of domestic cricket today. His staggering record tells you about his craft and the control he had over it, Ganguly said in his condolence statement.
“To have a career that lasts more than 25 years and still be able to perform consistently speaks about his dedication and commitment towards the game. To be able to pick 750 wickets needs years and years of hard work and I salute his efforts. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family,” the former India captain said.
Ganguly was joined by secretary secretary Jay Shah and treasurer Arun Dhumal, both of whom condoled the death of former left-arm spinner who played for Patiala, Southern Punjab, Delhi and Haryana.
“His longevity should inspire upcoming cricketers to excel and improve every time they take the field.
In a career spanning 26 seasons from 1958-5 to 1984-85, the left-arm spinner had added to his kitty 750 wickets from 157 matches, including 59 five-wicket hauls in a innings and 18 10-wicket haul in a match.
His son Nitin also represented Haryana in the Ranji Trophy cricket.
BCCI had honoured him with Col. CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017.