GUWAHATI, April 7: Former Indian cricket great Farokh Engineer has applauded the initiatives taken by the ACA (Assam Cricket Association) Cricket Academy while expressing hope that the ACA Cricket Stadium at Barsapara here would get Test venue status soon.
Attending a programme, ‘An Evening with the Legend’, arranged by ACA Cricket Academy here on Saturday, Engineer gave insights into his illustrious career and shared his valuable experiences in the world of cricket.
The 86-year-old wicketkeeper batsman made his debut for India in 1961 and went on to play 46 Test matches for the country. His first match was against England in Kanpur while his last appearance for India was against West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai in 1975 .
He also represented English county cricket club Lancashire in the 1960s and 1970s.
Currently a resident of London, he is one of the oldest living cricketers of India.
During the conversation session, Engineer shared several anecdotes from his playing days. He also recalled how he was invited by the legendary Sir Donald Bradman after a day’s play of a Test match in Australia.
Adding to the significance of the event, Assam’s senior-most living cricketer, 97-year-old Naba Kamal Bhuyan, who represented Assam in the Ranji Trophy in 1948, was also present, further enriching the occasion.
In addition to the engaging conversation, attendees also enjoyed a musical session featuring the violinist Sunita Khaund Bhuyan, adding a cultural dimension to the celebration of cricketing excellence.
“It was a great moment for us to have Farokh Engineer amongst ourselves. Listening to him was an enriching experience for many of us,” said BCCI joint secretary Devajit Saikia, who is also the member secretary of ACA Cricket Academy.
