Salim Durani,

 the former Indian Cricketer known for his movie star looks and big-hitting abilities, passed away on Sunday at the age of 88 due to age-related ailments. He had been residing with his younger brother in Jamnagar, Gujarat, where he underwent a surgery earlier this year after breaking his thigh bone in a fall.

Durani was born in Kabul, Afghanistan and played 29 Tests for India. He was an instrumental part of the team that defeated England 2-0 in the historic five-match Test series in 1961-62, with eight and 10 wickets in the team's victories at Calcutta and Madras. He was a prolific left-arm orthodox bowler and a hard-hitting batsman who could smash monstrous sixes on demand. Although he only scored one century, he had seven fifties in the 50 innings he played for India, scoring 1,202 runs.

Durani's fine dressing style and swagger on and off the field earned him many fans, as did his puckish sense of humour. He played a crucial role in India's victory against the West Indies in Port of Spain, dismissing both Clive Lloyd and Sir Garfield Sobers. Durani also dabbled in Bollywood, starring opposite renowned actor Praveen Babi in the movie Charitra in 1973.

Durani will be remembered as one of India's most stylish and entertaining cricketers, with a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of fans.

Born on December 12, 1934, in Kabul, Durani migrated to India with his family during the Partition. He made his Test debut against the West Indies at Kolkata in 1962, and played his last Test against England at Birmingham in 1974. Durani also played 10 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), taking nine wickets and scoring 147 runs.

One of his most memorable innings was in the fourth Test against the West Indies in 1962-63 in Delhi, where he smashed 104 not out off just 124 balls. He also had a great sense of humour, which was often on display both on and off the field. His wit and charm made him a popular figure among his teammates, and he was widely respected by his opponents as well.

After retiring from cricket, Durani continued to be involved with the game as a commentator, and also worked as a coach. He was known for his insightful commentary and his ability to provide a unique perspective on the game. He was a mentor to many young cricketers and was always willing to share his knowledge and experience with them.

Durani's passing is a great loss to the cricketing world, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of cricketers to come. He will be remembered as one of the greatest all-rounders to have ever played for India, and as a true gentleman of the game. His passing is a reminder of the fragility of life, and of the need to cherish the memories of those we have lost.

The cricketing fraternity, as well as fans from all over the world, took to social media to express their condolences on Durani's passing. Many of his former teammates and opponents paid tribute to him, recalling his many contributions to the game and his infectious personality.

In a tweet, former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar said, "Sad to hear about the passing of Salim Durani. Had the pleasure of meeting him on a few occasions and he always had a smile on his face. My condolences to his family and friends."

Former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman tweeted, "Sad to hear about the passing of Salim Durani. An iconic cricketer and a true gentleman of the game. His contribution to Indian cricket will always be remembered. My deepest condolences to his family and friends."

Durani's death is a reminder of the many legends of Indian cricket who have left us in recent years, including Ajit Wadekar, Bapu Nadkarni, and Budhi Kunderan. These greats of the game will always be remembered for their contributions to Indian cricket, and their legacies will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers.

In conclusion, Salim Durani will be remembered as one of India's greatest all-rounders and as a true gentleman of the game. His legacy will continue to inspire young cricketers for generations to come, and his passing is a reminder of the importance of cherishing the memories of those we have lost. May his soul rest in peace.

PM Modi condoles Salim Durani’s demise

Condoling the demise of the legendary Indian cricketer, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he made a key contribution to India’s rise in the world of cricket.

In a tweet, Prime Minister Modi said, “Salim Durani Ji was a cricketing legend, an institution in himself. He made a key contribution to India’s rise in the world of cricket. On and off the field, he was known for his style. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace.”

Noting that Salim Durani had a very old and strong association with Gujarat, the Prime Minister said he played for Saurashtra and Gujarat for a few years, and also made the State his home.

“I have had the opportunity to interact with him and was deeply impressed by his multifaceted persona. He will surely be missed,” Mr. Modi said.