Never dreamt I would be honoured by BCCI: Nadkarni

Mumbai: Former Test all-rounder R G (Bapu) Nadkarni is pleasantly surprised by the Cricket Board`s decision to honour him with two other former India stalwarts at its 7th annual awards function here on January 11.

"I never even dreamt I would be honoured by the Board. I have been caught on the wrong foot, so to say. It has come a bit late, but I am very happy that my small contribution has been recognised. Of course, I will be there," 80-year-old Nadkarni told PTI Thursday. Nashik-born Nadkarni, renowned for his accurate left-arm spin bowling with which he reeled off maiden overs endlessly and his obdurate batting, is to be given a special award by the BCCI in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian cricket along with two other former Test players from Mumbai - England-settled stumper Farokh Engineer and the late Eknath Solkar. The award comprises a trophy and a cheque for Rs 15 lakh. "Last year, we felicitated three cricketers posthumously - Vijay Merchant, Vijay Manjrekar and Dilip Sardesai - who did not win the C K Nayudu award. Likewise, we`re honouring these three former cricketers," said Board`s General Manager (Game Development), Prof Ratnakar Shetty, about the special award.