Former Mumbai captain, chief selector and mentor Milind Rege has passed away a few days after his 76th birthday. Rege who suffered a heart attack in the 1970s suffered to illness on February 19 morning at a city hispital.
Rege was a childhood friend of the legendary Sunil Gavaskar. They studied together at the same school and college. Later, they went on to play for Dadar Union Sporting Club.
He did not give up on cricket after suffering a heart attack and returned to Mumbai's Ranji Trophy team during the 1977-78 season as prominent names were playing in Australia. Mumbai could not make it to the knockout stage of that season for the first time in tournament's history.
“Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Milind Rege Sir. A stalwart of Mumbai cricket. His contributions as a player, selector and mentor were invaluable. His guidance shaped generations of cricketers, and his legacy will forever be cherished,” said MCA president Ajinkya Naik as quoted by Mid-day.
Rege's first-class numbers and legacy
Rege played 52 first-class games. From 70 innings, he scored 1,532 runs at an average of 23.56. The right-arm off-spinner was impressive with the ball taking 126 wickets at an average of 29.23 including three five-wicket hauls.
Rege's numbers may not have been impressive but he left a mark on Mumbai cricket. He was one of the selectors who pushed for another legendary batter, Sachin Tendulkar's inclusion in Mumbai's Ranji Trophy squad in 1988.
He served as an administrator in Mumbai cricket as well. His last role at MCA was as consultant. He also commentated at various domestic tournaments organised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).