Padmakar Shivalkar, a fine left-arm spinner of Indian domestic cricket, died on Monday. He leaves behind a legacy of skill, strength, and a steadfast commitment to the sport. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released a deeply moving statement upon hearing of the death of Mumbai Cricket’s very own legend whose contribution to Indian cricket has remained unmatched.
A force to be reckoned with in the Ranji Trophy, Shivalkar appeared in 124 first-class games, taking 589 wickets at a phenomenal average of 19.69. His control over flight, accuracy, and sharp turn made him a batters’ nightmare, and his most memorable performance was in the 1972–73 Ranji Trophy final.
His match-winning performances of 8/16 and 5/18 saw Mumbai (formerly Bombay) humiliate Tamil Nadu, and his reputation as one of the great bowlers of domestic cricket was solidified. Padmalkar Shivalkar’s career was characterized by extraordinary consistency and the capacity to get turned even off dead surfaces.
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His mastery of line and length, along with his keen insight into a batter’s psychology, made him a terror to face. Though his period overlapped that of the great Bishan Singh Bedi, which robbed him of an India cap, his contribution to Indian cricket cannot be questioned. His efforts were formally acknowledged in 2017 when he was honoured with the prestigious Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award by the BCCI.
The BCCI mourns the unfortunate demise of Shri Padmakar Shivalkar, one of India’s finest spinners ever.
In a career spanning two decades, Shri Shivalkar played 124 first-class matches, claiming an impressive 589 wickets at an outstanding average of 19.69.
For his exceptional… pic.twitter.com/ZWnEKtTPkD
— BCCI (@BCCI) March 3, 2025
BCCI President Roger Binny also remembered the late spinner, saying, “Indian cricket has lost a true legend today. Padmakar Shivalkar’s expertise in left-arm spin and his profound knowledge of the game made him a legendary figure in domestic cricket. His illustrious career and unselfish service to Mumbai and Indian cricket will always be remembered.”
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Devajit Saikia, honorary secretary, BCCI, shared the same views, stating, “Shivalkar Sir was an inspiration for generations of cricketers. His ability, consistency, and longevity were simply incredible. Although he never represented India, his contribution to Mumbai and Indian cricket cannot be questioned.”
The death of Shivalkar signals the end of an era, but his legacy as one of India’s most talented and gracious cricketers will always be remembered in the history of Indian cricket.
