Legendary Mumbai Cricketer Padmakar Shivalkar Passes Away at 84, Cricket Fraternity Pays Tribute

Former Mumbai cricketer and domestic cricket stalwart Padmakar Shivalkar passed away on March 3 at the age of 84 due to age-related issues. Shivalkar, one of the greatest left-arm spinners in Indian domestic cricket, never played for the national team despite his exceptional talent, as his career coincided with that of Bishan Singh Bedi.

Cricket great Sunil Gavaskar paid an impassioned homage to Padmakar Shivalkar, noting that despite his great talent the left-arm spinner never won an India cap. He conveyed his grief at the death and underlined Shivalkar’s major contributions to Mumbai cricket. Gavaskar said Shivalkar was a bowler who could challenge even the finest hitters and was instrumental in many of Mumbai’s wins. He noted that Shivalkar is a unique talent who could bowl all day with an economy run-up and a beautiful movement, hence his loss will be much lamented.

Deeply saddened to know about the demise of the legendary left-arm spinner and one of India’s domestic cricket heroes, Padmakar Shivalkar Sir. Heard a lot of stories about his exploits in domestic cricket and how unfortunate he was to not represent the country. My heartfelt… pic.twitter.com/Rb7pTcw7FI

— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) March 3, 2025

Beginning his Ranji Trophy in the 1961–62 season, Padmakar Shivalkar played first-class cricket for Mumbai until the 1987–1988 season, retiring at the age of 47. Having played 124 first-class matches, he took 589 wickets at an exceptional average of 19.60, including 13 10-wicket hauls and 42 five-wicket hauls. Mumbai won their 15th straight title when he took 8 for 16 and 5 for 18 in the Ranji Trophy final against Tamil Nadu in 1972–73. His control, flight, and ability to spin the ball sharply even on unresponsive grounds were much loved. For more than two decades, Mumbai cricket was anchored on his steadiness and endurance.

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Deep grief on his loss, Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) President Ajinkya Naik said Mumbai Cricket has lost a real legacy. Calling Padmakar Shivalkar’s death an irreparable loss to the cricketing fraternity, he complimented his passion, ability, and influence on Mumbai cricket. With President Roger Binny praising Shivalkar as a beloved person in domestic cricket and noting his great knowledge of the game, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also issued a statement recognizing Shivalkar. Devajit Saikia, BCCI Honorary Secretary, pointed out that Shivalkar was an example to the next generations of cricket players and that his success revealed his extraordinary talent.

Mumbai cricket has lost a true legend today. Padmakar Shivalkar Sir’s contribution to the game, especially as one of the finest spinners of all time, will always be remembered. His dedication, skill, and impact on Mumbai cricket are unparalleled. His passing is an irreplaceable… pic.twitter.com/Nmca72CNfB

— Ajinkya Naik – President, MCA. (@ajinkyasnaik) March 3, 2025

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Padmakar Shivalkar’s services were acknowledged in 2016 when he was given the esteemed Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award even though he did not play for India. Unmatched in Mumbai cricket, his efforts in the Ranji Trophy are still regarded as some of the best in Indian domestic cricket history. His death symbolizes the end of an era in Indian cricket, and his impact, commitment, and left-arm spin expertise will inspire the next generations. The chronicles of Indian cricket will always carry Padmakar Shivalkar’s legacy.