Chandu Borde: Our Motivation Was Never Money

Chandu Borde, the legendary cricketer who represented India in 52 Tests during the 1950s and 1960s, is gearing up to celebrate his 90th birthday in July. Despite retiring from active play, Borde continued to contribute to Indian cricket in various roles, including selector, team manager, and cricket manager until 2007. Recently, he was honored with the IDFC First Bank Lifetime Achievement Award at the Sportstar Aces Awards 2024, where he regaled the audience with his witty anecdotes and reflections on his cricketing journey.

Looking back on nearly eight decades in cricket, Borde expressed his gratitude for the experiences and relationships he has built over the years. He reminisced about playing alongside and against some of the greatest cricketers of his time, both from India and abroad. Borde particularly highlighted the influence of Vijay Hazare, Sunil Gavaskar, and Sachin Tendulkar on his career, sharing memorable incidents involving each of them.

One of the standout moments Borde recalled was the 2007 Test series win in England, where he served as Cricket Manager during a challenging period for the team. Despite facing setbacks and disappointments in his career, Borde remains positive and content with his journey in cricket. He emphasized that the joy of playing the game and the satisfaction of success far outweigh any financial rewards, reflecting on the modest earnings he received during his playing days.

As Chandu Borde prepares to mark this significant milestone in his life, his enduring passion for cricket and his unwavering positivity serve as an inspiration to all who have had the privilege of witnessing his remarkable journey in the sport.