Uttar Pradesh cabinet minister Chetan Chauhan, who was known for his long opening partnerships, took his last breathe on Sunday as he was suffering from COVID-19 related complications after being put on life support for nearly 36 hours. He was 73 years old and was currently serving as Minister of Sainik Welfare, Home Guards, and Civil Security in the Uttar Pradesh cabinet. Chauhan played 40 Test matches for India.
Informing about his demiss, Chetan Chauhan’s younger brother, Pushpendra during a chat with PTI, said, “My elder brother Shri Chetan Chauhan has left us today after fighting a good battle. I sincerely thank everyone who had prayed for his recovery. His son Vinayak will be reached anytime and we will then perform last rites.”
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Chetan Chauhan, who was the longest-serving opening partner for the legendary batsman Sunil Gavaskar was admitted to Sanjay Gandhi PGI hospital in Lucknow on July 12 after being tested positive for the coronavirus. He failed to recover because he was already suffering from kidney-related ailments. On Friday night, he had a multi-organ failure and was put on ventilator support.
After retiring, Chetan Chauhan served in the Delhi and Districts Cricket Association (DDCA) in various capacities – president, vice-president, secretary, and chief selector – apart from being the manager of the Indian Team during its tour of Australia in 2001. During his 12-year-long cricket career, Chetan Chauhan amassed 2,084 runs with 16 half-centuries and two wickets. He could not ever get a century with being 97 his best.
With Sunil Gavaskar, Chauhan formed a formidable opening pair for India as they together amassed 3,000 runs, including 12-century stands.
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Having made his first-class debut at the age of 22 against Mumbai, former Indian opener was known for his brave batting. One of the most memorable moments of his career as an opener was the 213-run stand with Sunil Gavaskar against England at The Oval in 1979, during which he scored 80 runs.
