The cricketing world is mourning the loss of Dilip Doshi, former India cricketer and one of the most respected left-arm spinners the country has produced. Doshi passed away in London on Monday, June 23, at the age of 77. He is survived by his wife Kalindi, son Nayan, and daughter Visakha.
Though often referred to as a late bloomer, Doshi’s career is a remarkable story of perseverance, skill, and dedication to the game. His contributions, both on and off the field, have left a lasting imprint on Indian cricket.
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A Late Bloomer, Yet A Giant of Indian Spin Bowling
Born in Rajkot, Gujarat, Dilip Doshi made his debut in first-class cricket during the 1968-69 season, playing for Saurashtra before later moving to Bengal. His dominance in domestic cricket was undeniable. Over an impressive first-class career spanning nearly two decades, Doshi featured in 238 matches, taking a staggering 898 wickets. This included 43 five-wicket hauls and 6 ten-wicket match hauls—a testament to his consistency and mastery of spin.
However, it wasn’t until 1979, at the age of 32, that Doshi finally broke into the Indian national team. While many players retire around that age, Doshi’s story was just beginning.
In 33 Test appearances, he captured 114 wickets, including six five-wicket hauls. His international highlight reel includes notable performances against Australia, England, and Pakistan, where his sharp turn and immaculate control made life difficult for top-order batters. In 15 ODIs, he picked up 22 wickets, further underlining his adaptability in different formats.
Before making his India debut, Doshi had already built a formidable reputation in domestic cricket. Representing Bengal and Saurashtra, Doshi’s first-class cricket numbers were extraordinary:
- 238 matches
- 898 wickets
- 43 five-wicket hauls
- 6 ten-wicket match hauls
His classical left-arm orthodox style was marked by subtle variations, flight, and a relentless accuracy that often tied batsmen in knots.
Admiration from Cricketing Greats
Cricketing great Sir Garfield Sobers once praised Doshi, saying, “Dilip Doshi has an immeasurable knowledge to pass on to those who want to follow his path into professional cricket. He has played at all levels over the world and there can be no one more qualified to talk about the art of spin bowling.”
Back home, heartfelt tributes poured in. Former BCCI secretary Niranjan Shah shared, “It is an extremely painful and personal loss for me. His noble heart, integrity, and dedication to the game made him truly special.”
Jaydev Shah, president of the Saurashtra Cricket Association, added, “His passing is an irreparable loss to the cricketing fraternity. He wasn’t just a legendary cricketer—he was like an uncle and a mentor to me.”
Dilip Doshi’s Cricket Career at a Glance
| Format | Matches | Wickets | 5-Wicket Hauls | 10-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 33 | 114 | 6 | – |
| ODIs | 15 | 22 | 0 | – |
| First-Class | 238 | 898 | 43 | 6 |
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FAQs
Who was Dilip Doshi cricketer?
Dilip Doshi was a legendary Indian left-arm spinner who represented India in Tests and ODIs from 1979 to 1983.
How many Test wickets did Dilip Doshi take?
He claimed 114 wickets in 33 Test matches.
Which domestic teams did Doshi play for?
Doshi represented Bengal and Saurashtra in the Indian domestic circuit.
What did Sir Garfield Sobers say about Dilip Doshi?
Sobers praised Doshi’s immense cricketing knowledge, calling him among the most qualified to teach the art of spin bowling.
How did Indian cricket officials react to his passing?
Former BCCI secretary Niranjan Shah and SCA president Jaydev Shah expressed deep personal grief at his passing, calling it a huge loss.
