### Remembering Padmakar Shivalkar: A Legend of Mumbai Cricket Padmakar Shivalkar, a revered left-arm spinner and a stalwart of Mumbai cricket, passed away at the age of 84 due to age-related issues. His remarkable career spanned nearly three decades, during which he took almost 600 first-class wickets, yet he never had the opportunity to represent India at the international level. Shivalkar's legacy is marked by his exceptional skills and contributions to domestic cricket, particularly in the Ranji Trophy, where he became a household name in Mumbai cricket circles. His passing has elicited heartfelt tributes from the cricketing community, including the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which expressed deep sorrow over his demise [https://www.ibtimes.co.in/bcci-mourns-passing-mumbai-spinner-former-ranji-trophy-star-padmakar-shivalkar-880316]. ### Structure of the Response 1. **Career Overview** - Shivalkar's cricketing journey began in the early 1960s and continued until the late 1980s. - He played a total of 124 First-Class matches, claiming 589 wickets at an impressive average of 19.69 [https://www.moneycontrol.com/sports/cricket/legendary-mumbai-spinner-padmakar-shivalkar-dies-at-84-article-12955234.html]. 2. **Recognition and Legacy** - Despite his outstanding performance, Shivalkar's career coincided with that of other legendary spinners, notably Bishan Singh Bedi, which limited his chances for national selection [https://www.indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/padmakar-shivalkar-left-arm-spin-stalwart-death-passes-away-9866586]. - He was awarded the Col. CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017, highlighting his contributions to Indian cricket [https://www.latestly.com/socially/sports/cricket/padmakar-shivalkar-dies-bcci-shares-tribute-mourning-the-loss-of-legendary-mumbai-spinner-6684186.html]. 3. **Tributes and Mourning** - The BCCI and various cricketing bodies have paid tribute to Shivalkar, acknowledging his impact on the game and the void his passing leaves in the cricketing community [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/mumbai-spin-stalwart-shivalkar-no-more-101741023903887.html]. - Fellow cricketers and fans have expressed their condolences, celebrating his life and career [https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/mumbai-ranji-trophy-great-padmakar-shivalkar-dies-aged-84-1475786]. ### Evidence of Impact and Legacy - **Career Statistics**: - **First-Class Matches**: 124 - **Wickets Taken**: 589 - **Bowling Average**: 19.69 - **Career Span**: 1961-62 to 1987-88 [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/sports-games/3283990-spinning-legend-padmakar-shivalkar-passes-away-at-84]. - **Awards**: - Col. CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award (2017) [https://www.latestly.com/socially/sports/cricket/padmakar-shivalkar-dies-bcci-shares-tribute-mourning-the-loss-of-legendary-mumbai-spinner-6684186.html]. ### Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy **Padmakar Shivalkar's contributions to cricket, particularly in Mumbai, are undeniable.** His career, though not marked by international appearances, was filled with remarkable achievements that have left a lasting impact on the sport. 1. **Career Highlights**: Shivalkar's impressive statistics and performances in domestic cricket solidify his status as one of the finest spinners to never play for India. 2. **Recognition**: His accolades, including the prestigious CK Nayudu Award, reflect the respect he garnered within the cricketing community. 3. **Tributes**: The outpouring of grief from the BCCI and fellow cricketers underscores the significant role he played in shaping Mumbai cricket. Shivalkar's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers, reminding them of the dedication and passion required to excel in the sport [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/mumbai-spin-stalwart-shivalkar-no-more-101741023903887.html, https://www.ibtimes.co.in/bcci-mourns-passing-mumbai-spinner-former-ranji-trophy-star-padmakar-shivalkar-880316].