Durani, a stylish 1960s Indian cricketer with movie star looks and a penchant for hitting monster sixes on demand, died on Sunday. He was 88 years old.
“Salim Durani Ji was a cricketing legend, an institution in itself. He made a key contribution to the rise of India in the world of cricket. On and off the pitch, he was known for his style. Saddened by his passing. Condolences to his family and friends. That his soul rests in peace,” Modi PM said in a tweet.
Noting that Salim Durani had a very old and strong association with Gujarat, the Prime Minister said he had played for Saurashtra and Gujarat for a few years and also made his home in the state.
“I had the opportunity to interact with him and was deeply impressed by his multi-faceted personality. He will surely be missed,” Modi said.
Modi also said he had the opportunity to interact with the great Salim Durani on several occasions.
“One such occasion was in January 2004 during a program in Jamnagar, during which a statue of the great cricketer Vinoo Mankad Ji was unveiled. Here are some memories from the programme,” Modi said, sharing photos of this event.
Durani lived with her younger brother Jahangir Durani in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
Kabul-born Durani, who punched with his bat and was also a practical left-arm orthodox bowler, bowled 29 Tests and was instrumental in England’s 2-0 defeat to India in the of the historic five-game Test series in 1961-62, picking up eight and 10 wickets in the team’s wins at Calcutta and Madras respectively.
(With PTI entries)
