Remembering Anil Gurav: The Unfulfilled Cricketing Talent of Mumbai

A Talented Cricketer's Journey

Anil Gurav, affectionately nicknamed the "Vivian Richards of Mumbai" by his friends for his batting style, faced challenges that ultimately hindered his cricketing career. Despite being a promising disciple of the late Ramakant Achrekar, a Dronacharya Award-winning coach, Gurav never reached the heights of professional cricket, often reflecting on choices that led to his regrets.

Gurav, who passed away at his home in Nalasopara on Tuesday, was regarded as one of Achrekar's finest students. However, his cricketing journey was limited to club-level matches, and he never made it to the Mumbai team.

He was a few years older than cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Vinod Kambli at Shardashram Vidyamandir. It is said that Achrekar would often have Tendulkar and Kambli observe Gurav during practice sessions.

Nadim Memon, a seasoned curator and councillor with the Mumbai Cricket Association, reminisced, "Achrekar sir would have Sachin and others watch him in the nets. He was a player from whom many could learn."

Despite his evident talent, Gurav's cricketing career was limited to U-16 and U-19 levels, along with stints at Achrekar's Sassanian Cricket Club and Kamath Memorial.

Memon noted, "His friends called him the 'Vivian Richards of Mumbai' not just for his square cut but also for his prowess on the leg side."

Interestingly, Gurav is remembered for lending his bat to Tendulkar during their school days, which helped the future cricketing icon score his first competitive century.

Tragically, Gurav's life took a downturn due to his brother Ajit's involvement in illegal activities, which brought significant trouble to their family. As his cricketing aspirations faded, Gurav turned to drinking and distanced himself from the sport.