Milind Rege, Mumbai cricket stalwart, passes away at 76

Former Mumbai captain Milind Rege – renowned as Mumbai cricket’s encyclopaedia – passed away on Wednesday at a hospital due to cardiac arrest. He was 76.

An off-spinning all-rounder who featured in 52 First-Class matches during the golden age of Mumbai cricket, Rege was part of five consecutive Ranji Trophy title-winning seasons. His playing career was cut short due to cardiac issues in his late 20s, but he not only made a comeback to competitive cricket but also enjoyed a sterling career off the field.

Besides heading the Tata Sports Club and the communications wing at Tatas, Rege served Mumbai cricket in various capacities. He took pride in unearthing talent as a selector. From Sachin Tendulkar to Yashasvi Jaiswal, he was among the first former cricketers to spot their talent and promote them at the highest level. For the last four years, he was appointed as an advisor by the Mumbai Cricket Association.

Thanks to the duo growing up together in Mumbai, Rege may have been known outside the city as Sunil Gavaskar’s best friend. But for Mumbai cricketers and a plethora of other top players who competed in corporate cricket in the city, Rege was a source of advice and inspiration. His command over language, ability to analyse the game, and knack for connecting with youngsters were appreciated by one and all. This was also evident during his multiple stints as a television commentator and expert.

Former India all-rounder and coach Sandeep Patil paid tribute to the departed soul. “My support system in life has gone today,” Patil told Sportstar from Kolkata. “At my book release (in November 2024), he said, ‘See you in Kolkata.’ I was waiting for him to visit me!

“He played a very, very important role in my life on and off the field. He and his wife Raj stood behind me in my trying times. Mumbai has lost its biggest supporter; his contribution to helping and building the careers of young talent will remain unmatched! He remained loyal to Dadar Union, CCI, and MCA. Even in his later days, he always wanted to be part of Mumbai cricket as a long-serving selector and administrator! I will keep missing him.”

Diana Edulji, former India women’s captain and also an MCA advisor, referred to Rege as her guide. “Woke up to the sad news of the passing of my guide and friend Milind Rege. We played cricket in the same era. His contribution to Mumbai cricket was par excellence. Together, we worked as advisors to MCA. His constructive ideas were always in the interest of Mumbai cricket. We will miss him in future meetings,” Edulji said.

Rege is survived by his wife, Raj, sons Siddharth and Aditya, along with their families. The last rites will be performed in Mumbai on Thursday.

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