NAGPUR: Just like batting, public speaking too comes naturally to
Wasim Jaffer. The former India opener, who is known for his sweet timing, won many hearts with his encouraging words for the youngsters during the Bankers Sports Council's 52nd annual prize distribution function at Mor Hindi Bhavan, Sitabuldi, on Wednesday.
The veteran lauded the efforts of
Vidarbha
and India 'A' pacer
Rajneesh Gurbani, who incidentally won the outstanding sports person award for VV Naik Trophy.
"Rajneesh has performed a pivotal role in Vidarbha's historic triumphs in
Ranji Trophy and
Irani Trophy
last season. Of course, there are other players who also contributed immensely but Rajneesh stood out for his sterling performances in the knock-out stage. He inspired others with his lion-hearted show and did a commendable job," said Jaffer.
Jaffer, who was the chief guest, distributed the prizes of inter-bank sports meets as well as to prominent people in the cultural and social fields.
"I have several happy memories of Nagpur. I scored my first Test hundred here against England in 2006. Then, I also led Rest of India team to Irani Trophy. It was great to be a part of the Vidarbha side which won historic twin titles. We hope to continue the spectacular show in the current season too," said Jaffer.
He congratulated all the awardees and hoped that some of the sportspersons would go on to represent the country in future. He praised Bankers Sports Council for organizing the function 52 years in succession.
At the outset, Ramesh Thakur, BSC president, felicitated Jaffer for completing 11,000 runs in Ranji Trophy history.
SV Satpute (RBI), GK Sudhakar Rao (Union Bank), BP Mahapatra (PNB), Vilas Parate (BOI), all regional heads of various banks and Sarabjeet Singh Bhatia, MD, Bhatia Farms, Hemant Wasu (PRO, SBI), Rajesh Gavande (CM, Union Bank) were prominentaly present on the occasion.
The Times of India senior sports journalist Suhas Nayse received the Jawaharlal Nehru Birth centenary award. Former Vidarbha Ranji skipper Paresh Sutane was named as the best sportsman of Inter-Bank events.
Sportspersons who were feliticiated on the occasion included cricketers Faiz Fazal, Rajneesh Gurbani, Mohit Kale, Yash Rathod, Atharva Taide, Yash Kadam, Manoj Itkelwar (chess), Anup Deshmukh, Kanchanmala Pande (para swimmer), Dr Amit Samarth (cyclist), Rohan Gurbani (badminton), Usman Ghani (coach) and Mrunaal Pande, Tijan Pawar (both blind chess).
Prafulla Nandedkar, BSC secretary, CP Karkar and TB Meshram conducted the proceedings, while Ramesh Thakur proposed a vote of thanks.
Stay updated with the latest from IPL Auction 2025, including the final squads of all 10 teams – MI, CSK, RCB, GT, RR, KKR, DC, PBKS, SRH, and LSG. Don't miss the latest updates on our Live Cricket Score page.
Start a Conversation
Post comment