Published: Jul 11, 2016, 11:32 AM (IST)
Edited: Jul 11, 2016, 11:32 AM (IST)
These men ruled the Indian role model’s list in the 1970s and 80s in India. While Amitabh Bachchan was the undisputed Bollywood Baadshah, parents aspired that their son will grow up to bat like Sunil Gavaskar. The Mumbai’s Little Master inspired a generation like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. Talking of Kapil Dev, the nation back then believed that Indians were indeed capable of bowling pace and the names — Mohammad Nissar and Amar Singh were no myth. ALSO READ: Virender Sehwag calls Sunil Gavaskar ‘Sholay of cricket’ on his birthday
Bollywood and cricket have always maintained a close connection and it is not surprising that Bachchan shares a good camaraderie with Gavaskar. The latter turned 67 on Sunday and spent his birthday in London. Kapil and Bachchan found a way to wish the cricket legend.
In an interview with mid-day, Gavaskar confirmed about receiving their wishes, “These two legends and good friends unfailingly contact and wish me on my birthday every year. I am truly lucky to get theirs and many others’ wishes every year.” READ MORE: Growing up with Sunil Gavaskar: Man, Milestone and Myth
Gavaskar was much famed for his exploits in West Indies and he admitted that he would be “surprised” if India did not win the series there. He also opened up on Anil Kumble’s appointment as India’s head coach and added, “Even though a cricketer retires from international cricket he still wants to serve the game in some capacity and Anil will be doing that now with the same distinction and determination that he brought to his cricket.”
