Former Indian cricket captain Ajit Wadekar dies at 77

Former Indian cricket team captain Ajit Wadekar died on Wednesday at the age of 77.  The legendary cricketer died in a hospital in Mumbai after prolonged illness.

Wadekar is best remembered for leading the Indian cricket team in its first series win against England in England in 1971. The team under him won the three match series 1-0, with two draws.

He was born as Ajit Laxman Wadekar on April 1, 1941 in Mumbai. The left-handed batsman has always been rated as one of the finest players in the cricketing history.

Wadekar played 37 Tests and 2 One Day International matches. His batting average in Tests was 31.07. The former captain hit 14 Test 50s and one century.

He made his international Test debut against West Indies in Mumbai in 1966, and played his last at Birmingham against England in 1974. His ODI debut was against England at Leeds in 1974 itself. He his one half century in the ODI format.

Wadekar was considered to be one of the best batsmen to come in at the number 3 slot in Tests, and was also a brilliant fielder.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the demise of the former cricketer, saying he led the Indian team to some of the most memorable wins. He said Wadekar would be remembered for his rich contribution to Indian cricket.

"A great batsman & wonderful captain, he led our team to some of the most memorable victories in our cricketing history. He was also respected as an effective cricket administrator. Pained by his demise," Modi tweeted.

Noted commentator Harsha Bhogle also took to Twitter to remember the legendary cricketer. He tweeted, "So many memories of Ajit Wadekar. None more powerful than leading India to series wins in 1971 in England and the West Indies. Much admired, much loved. Page in Indian cricket and in our memories."