Prime Minister Modi recalled the late cricketer's association with Gujarat.

New Delhi:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the death of legendary cricketer Salim Durrani.

He said that he was an institution in himself and was instrumental in India's rise in world cricket.

Durrani died on Sunday at the age of 88.

He lived in Jamnagar with his younger brother Jehangir Durrani.

Prime Minister Modi tweeted, "Salim Durrani ji was a great cricketer and an institution in himself. He contributed significantly to India's rise in world cricket. He was known for his style on and off the field. He passed away." Saddened. Condolences to his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace."

I had the opportunity to interact with the great Salim Durani Ji on various occasions.

One such occasion was in January 2004 at a program in Jamnagar, in which a statue of the great cricketer Vinoo Mankad Ji was inaugurated.

Here are some memories from the programme.

pic.twitter.com/alESpsVCcx

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 2, 2023

Referring to Durrani's close and strong ties with Gujarat, the Prime Minister said he played for Gujarat and Saurashtra for many years and also made his home in the state.

I got a chance to talk to him and was impressed by his versatility.

He will definitely be missed.

While Sports Minister Anurag Thakur said, "I am saddened by the demise of Salim Durrani ji. He was an inspiration for many generations of cricketers in India. His skill and talent will always inspire us."

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah said, "I am saddened by the passing away of one of the legends of Team India, Salim Durrani. We have lost a gem of an Indian cricketer today."

Sachin Tendulkar wrote, "I am saddened by the demise of Salim Durraniji. He was a very lively and loving person. My condolences to his family."

Former India coach Ravi Shastri said that Durrani was one of the most colorful cricketers in the country.

Former India cricketer VVS Laxman wrote, "India's first Arjuna Awardee cricketer and batsman who hit sixes on public demand Salim Durrani."