Milind Rege, Former Mumbai Captain And Cricket Stalwart, Passes Away At 76

February 19, 2025: Milind Rege, the former Mumbai captain, passed away on Wednesday following a heart attack, just days after celebrating his 76th birthday. The news of his death was confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in an official release.

Rege had an illustrious domestic cricket career, featuring prominently as an off-spin bowler. Over his career from the 1966-67 to 1977-78 seasons, he played 52 first-class matches, taking 126 wickets and scoring 1532 runs. His contributions were not only on the field but also post-retirement, where he became deeply involved with the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA). Rege served in multiple roles, including as a selector and eventually as the chief selector.

The BCCI paid tribute to him, acknowledging his key role in the growth and legacy of Mumbai cricket. His insight into talent and his contributions as a commentator were highly valued in the cricketing world.

Former India cricketer Ravi Shastri was among the first to express his condolences, sharing a heartfelt tribute on his official X handle,

“Really sad to hear about the demise of a dear friend Milind Rege. A true Champion in his contribution to Mumbai and Tata’s cricket all-round. A Mentor Par Excellence. Heartfelt condolences to Raj and family. God bless his soul.”

Sachin Tendulkar took to social media and penned an emotional note for the ex-Mumbai captain. Rege was also one of the Mumbai selectors when Sachin Tendulkar was added to the Ranji Trophy squad in 1988.

” Sad to hear about Milind Rege Sir’s passing. He was a true Mumbai cricketer with immense contributions to the city’s cricket. He and other CCI members saw potential in me and asked me to play for CCI, which, as I look back now, was a landmark moment in my career.”

Rege was also a pivotal figure in Mumbai’s cricketing history, notably being part of the selection panel that included a young Sachin Tendulkar in Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy squad in 1988. He was an early advocate for using video analysis in domestic cricket, pushing for its implementation in Mumbai’s setup in 2006.

In honor of his contributions, both the Mumbai and Vidarbha teams observed a minute’s silence before the third day’s play in their Ranji Trophy semi-final match in Nagpur. Many Mumbai players, who had earned their first-class caps under Rege’s selection committee, wore black armbands as a mark of respect.

Ajinkya Naik, the president of MCA, expressed his sadness in a statement, recognizing Rege’s invaluable contributions as a player, selector, and mentor. He emphasized how Rege’s legacy would live on in the cricketing community, shaping generations of players.

Rege was also known for his long-standing friendship with cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar. Both had attended the same school and college and played together at the Dadar Union Sporting Club.

Milind Rege’s passing marks the end of an era in Mumbai cricket, and his legacy will be remembered by all who had the privilege to witness his impact both on and off the field.