One is happy despite the late recognition, while the other couldn’t care less — this year’s C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement award winners Rajinder Goel and Padmakar Shivalkar held contrasting views on the coveted honour.
“Better late than never. Der aaye durust aaye . I am grateful to BCCI for bestowing me this honour. My contribution in Indian cricket has been acknowledged,” said a happy Goel.
When Shivalkar was asked the same question, he said: “Hope you have listened to the S.D. Burman composition ‘ Main Zindagi ka saath... It has a line Jo Mila Usiko Muqaddar samajh liya (Whatever you get is destiny).
“For me, I have crossed that stage of life: these things have become trivial.”
Both are raconteurs and had stories to tell. Their first match fee was ₹5 back in late 1960s and early 70s.
“It used to be three-day Ranji Trophy matches then. So we would get ₹15 for 3 days in which we would also have to manage three dinners. I had a job with State Bank of India that saved me,” recollected Goel.
When Shivalkar was asked about his playing days and to recollect a few matches, he blandly replied: “I am not the nostalgic type. What’s there to recollect?
“Yes a five-for in a match between Rest of World and Cricket Club of India at Brabourne. I don’t remember the year.
“And that Ranji final where we got Madras (Tamil Nadu now) all out for 60.”
