Dubai: ICC President Sharad Pawar on Friday paid tribute to late former India skipper Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, saying that he was one of the "greatest, most charismatic and flamboyant captains" to lead the country`s cricket team. "On behalf of the International Cricket Council (ICC), I condole the passing of `Tiger` Pataudi who was one of India`s greatest, most charismatic and flamboyant captains," Pawar said in a statement.
Aged 70, Pataudi breathed his last yesterday after battling a lung infection for the past few weeks.
Pataudi led India in 40 of the 46 Tests he played between 1961 and 1975 and his finest moment came in 1967 when he guided the country to its maiden overseas Test series triumph.
"Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi was a man of exceptional talent who turned out to be an inspiration to millions of cricketers, not only in India but across the globe. It was an honour and privilege to have known him," said Pawar.
"Mansur Ali Khan became a true darling of India cricket due to his on the field heroics and off the field easy manners. After retirement, he maintained his close association with the game in different capacities, including as a commentator."
"Whenever he shared his views on the game, they were taken seriously as they were considered to be coming right from the bottom of the heart of one of India`s greatest servants of the game. He will be sorely missed," Pawar added.
ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat also paid tribute to Pataudi, who fondly called `Tiger` for flamboyant persona.
"I was sad to learn of the demise of India`s iconic former Test captain Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi.
"...I had the privilege of discussing with him the past, present and future of Test and 50-over cricket. It was absolutely fascinating to hear his views and confidence in these formats," he said.
A Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1968, Pataudi scored 2,793 runs at an average of 35 and included six centuries. He also served as an ICC match referee in two Tests and 10 ODIs between 1993 and 1996.
PTI
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