Leaning back on the plush couch in his daughter's Palm Jumeirah apartment, Dilip Vengsarkar appeared relaxed, overlooking the magnificent Atlantis, The Royal Dubai. More than 32 years have passed since he dazzled spectators with his elegant cover drives. At 68, the 'Colonel' still looks fit enough to play in a veterans' game. With nearly 7,000 Test runs and 17 centuries, six against the formidable West Indies fast bowlers of the 1970s and 1980s, he now balances coaching young talents in Mumbai with playing with his grandson in Dubai.
Vengsarkar smiled as he recalled his first visit to Dubai, a journey along a narrow road flanked by sand, connecting Dubai and Sharjah for an exhibition match in 1981. Now, seated in a cozy corner of his daughter's man-made island home, he marvels at the transformation of the desert into a thriving metropolis. In an interview with City Times, the former Indian captain reminisced about the cricket glory days in Sharjah and a memorable meal prepared by Lata Mangeshkar in her London apartment, which helped raise funds for India's 1983 World Cup team.
Reflecting on the early days of cricket in Sharjah, Vengsarkar vividly remembered the first international match in 1981, organized by Abdul Rahman Bukhatir. The makeshift stands were packed, surprising the players with the local enthusiasm for cricket. Inspired by this, Bukhatir developed the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, hosting annual tournaments and attracting top teams. The stadium also initiated the Cricketers' Benefit Fund Series, aiding retired players with significant financial support.
Sharjah's cricket matches, especially those between India and Pakistan, became legendary, with intense rivalries and high-quality cricket. The organizers' innovative approach to global promotion, including inviting Bollywood stars, added to the tournament's glamour. Vengsarkar fondly recalled the simplicity of old Dubai, contrasting it with the modern marvels he now frequents, praising the city's visionary development.
With cricket's evolution into the lucrative T20 format, Vengsarkar mused about the game's financial changes, though he cherishes the joy of his playing days. He fondly remembers Lata Mangeshkar's hospitality and her significant contribution to cricket, highlighting her humble nature and deep love for the game.
