As India takes on the field against Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final at the Dubai International Stadium, every Indian player will be sporting black armbands to pay tribute to Shivalkar. The gesture underscores his enduring impact on Indian cricket, especially among generations of spinners who drew inspiration from his mastery.
Indian domestic cricket legend passes away at 80
Shri Padmakar Shivalkar, one of India’s greatest left-arm spinners, passed away on March 3, 2025, at the age of 80. A stalwart of domestic cricket, Shivalkar was a dominant force in the Ranji Trophy, finishing his illustrious career with 589 wickets in 124 first-class matches at a phenomenal average of 19.69.
Renowned for his deceptive flight, sharp turn, and unwavering accuracy, Shivalkar etched his name in cricketing history with an unforgettable performance in the 1972–73 Ranji Trophy final. His match-winning figures of 8 for 16 and 5 for 18 guided Mumbai (then Bombay) to a commanding victory over Tamil Nadu, cementing his legacy as one of the finest spinners in Indian cricket.
Despite never earning a Test cap, Shivalkar’s contributions to Indian cricket remain unparalleled. His dedication to Mumbai cricket made him a revered figure in domestic circles, earning respect from peers and fans alike. His contributions helped Mumbai’s team maintain a 15-year Ranji trophy winning streak during his time.
Australia to bat first in the semis:
The Australian captain decided to bat first after winning the toss in the first semi-final match at the Dubai International Stadium. Australian opener Matt Short and fast bowler Spencer Johnson are replaced by Cooper Connolly and Tanveer Sangha. However, India team has not made any change in their playing XI.
