'He has left us with many memories and moments to smile. I feel that a piece of me has left the world. RIP Vasu Sir.'
Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar has paid glowing tributes to noted coach Vasu Paranjape, who died in Mumbai on Monday, terming him one of the best coaches he has worked with.
The 82-year-old Paranjape died at his residence in Matunga, central Mumbai and is survived by his wife, and son Jatin, an ex-national selector and cricketer.
Remembering the man, who donned many hats, Tendulkar said in a statement, "Vasu sir, as I have always known him, was one of the best coaches I have worked with. He has been an integral part of my cricketing journey since childhood and a mentor in many ways."
According to Tendulkar, he was a knowledgeable and lively person with a great sense of humour.
"Early in my career, I remember him telling me in Marathi, 'You watch out for the first 15 minutes and the opposition will watch you for the rest of the day'.
"He was knowledgeable, lively and had a great sense of humour. I had visited him a few of months ago and he was his usual humorous self," added Tendulkar, who has numerous records to his name.
"During our Under-15 national camp in Indore, the caretaker had gone complaining to him (as coach) about us boys playing with a tennis ball in the night, keenly expecting some support and stringent action. Vasu Sir in his inimitable style reacted, 'They are kids and will play. Why don't you also field for them,' leaving the caretaker stumped!
"He has left us with many memories and moments to smile. I feel that a piece of me has left the world. RIP Vasu Sir," said the legendary batsman.
Tendulkar's teammate and former India batsman Vinod Kambli also paid tributes to Paranjape.
“Learnt a lot as a young Mumbai player from Vasu Paranjape sir, and he made learning the game a lot of fun for us. Deepest condolences to the family #RipVasusir,” tweeted former India all-rounder Ajit Agarkar.
