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Xtra Time Web Desk: In a heartfelt appeal, former Indian cricketer Sandeep Patil has called on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to provide urgent financial assistance to ailing ex-India head coach Anshuman Gaekwad. This request comes on the heels of the BCCI's generous announcement of ₹125 crore prize money for the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team following their triumphant 2024 T20 World Cup campaign.

Anshuman Gaekwad, a revered figure in Indian cricket, has been bravely battling blood cancer for the past year. At 71, he finds himself in dire need of funds for his treatment at King's College Hospital in London. Patil, who recently visited Gaekwad, shared the urgency of the situation in his column on Mid-Day. "Anshu told me that he needs funds for his treatment," Patil wrote. "Dilip Vengsarkar and I spoke to BCCI treasurer Ashish Shelar immediately after visiting Anshu in the hospital. Ashish assured us he would address our and other former cricketers' requests for financial support."

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Patil emphasized the critical need for timely intervention to save Gaekwad's life. "I’m sure Ashish Shelar will facilitate this and, at the risk of sounding macabre, save Anshu's life. Any cricketer from any country should be helped by his Board, but Anshu's case must be taken on priority and treated as paramount."

Gaekwad's legacy in Indian cricket is profound. He represented India in 40 Tests and 15 ODIs between 1975 and 1987, transitioning seamlessly into a coaching role with two stints as India’s head coach. His first tenure (1997-1999) saw India through a period of transition under Sachin Tendulkar's captaincy. Notable achievements during this period include Anil Kumble's historic 10-wicket haul against Pakistan and a series victory over Australia. His second stint in 2000 came at a tumultuous time post the match-fixing scandal, yet he led India to the final of the ICC Knockout.

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Gaekwad's influence extends beyond his coaching years. "He coached India in another era but the current players have been inspired by the cricketers he coached during his successful stint," Patil noted. During Gaekwad's tenure, Sachin Tendulkar thrived, showcasing the immense impact Gaekwad had on his players.

Patil's call to action is clear: the BCCI must extend the same generosity shown to the victorious T20 World Cup team to support Gaekwad in his time of need. His contributions to Indian cricket, both on and off the field, make him a deserving candidate for such assistance.