Shocking news in the world of cricket, specifically to the Mumbai Cricket Association, as Milind Rege, who is also a former captain for Mumbai and close friend of star cricketer Sunil Gavaskar, passed away at the age of 76 in the early hours of Wednesday, February 19, due to cardiac arrest and renal failure.
Rege is survived by his wife and two sons. Earlier in his twenties, he suffered a heart attack, which led to his dropping his cricket career. Rege celebrated his 76th birthday last Sunday, February 16. Presently, he is the cricket advisor of the Mumbai Cricket Association.
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Milind Rege served as the chief selector and selector of the Mumbai Cricket Association, and he has given his three decades to cricket. He was the chairman of the MCA’s Cricket Improvement Committee. He was also part of the committee that selected legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar for Mumbai in the 1988-89 season.
Rege, an off-spinner and allrounder who played for Mumbai, has won 13 Ranji Trophy titles. In his career, Rege took 126 wickets at an average of 29.23, including two five-wicket hauls, and scored 1532 runs at an average of 23.56. His career score is 67 not out. Rege lived in Prabhadevi in south Mumbai. He attended St. Xavier's High School and graduated from St. Xavier's College.
President of Mumbai Cricket Association took to X to express his anguish on the demise of Milind Rege. "Deeply saddened by the passing of Milind Rege Sir. A true stalwart of Mumbai cricket, his invaluable contributions as a player, selector, and mentor shaped generations of cricketers. His unwavering support and guidance will always be remembered, and his legacy will continue to inspire. He always stood by me, and I will forever be grateful. Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace," Ajinkya Naik said in a post.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also condoled the demise of Milind Rege in a post on X. The BCCI mourns the passing of Milind Rege, former Mumbai captain and selector. A pillar of Mumbai cricket, he played a key role in its growth and legacy. His keen eye for talent and contributions as a commentator earned admiration across the cricketing fraternity. The Board extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the @MumbaiCricAssoc," BCCI post reads.