Yashpal Sharma, hero of India’s maiden World Cup win, dead at 66

Yashpal Sharma, part of the India team that won the 1983 World Cup, has died of a heart attack at the age of 66, cricket authorities said.

Sharma played a key part in India’s first World Cup win that triggered cricket’s rise in South Asia. He played 37 Tests and 42 one-day internationals as a middle-order batsman between 1979 and 1985.

Sharma was the second highest run-getter for India at the 1983 tournament after captain Kapil Dev. He scored 89 against the West Indies in a first-round game and 61 in the semi-final against England.

India beat two-time champions the West Indies in the final at Lord’s.

In his condolence tweet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sharma was a member of India’s “legendary 1983 squad” and an “inspiration for teammates”.

Shri Yashpal Sharma Ji was a much beloved member of the Indian cricket team, including the legendary 1983 squad. He was an inspiration for teammates, fans as well as budding cricketers. Anguished by his passing away. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 13, 2021

“Shocked and deeply pained by the demise of Yashpal Sharma-ji. Have fond memories of watching him bat during the 1983 World Cup,” batting great Sachin Tendulkar wrote on Twitter.

“His contribution to Indian cricket shall always be remembered.”

Oh dear, so sorry to hear of the death of Yashpal Sharma who played such a big part in one of Indian cricket's most glorious hours #WorldCup1983. Too early to go. Condolences to his family.

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) July 13, 2021

Sharma made his Test debut in England in 1979.

After retiring, Sharma remained involved in coaching, commentary and cricket administration, including two stints as national selector.

Jay Shah, secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, said Sharma “will always be remembered for his knock of 89 runs against West Indies, which provided impetus to India’s World Cup journey in 1983”.