Mumbai: Former Mumbai captain Milingd Rege passed away at the age of 76 after suffering cardiac arrest. He played multiple roles in Mumbai cricket after drawing curtains on his career and worked with the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) throughout his life. He worked as a managing committee member selector, and commentator and later was appointed as advisor to MCA. Rege was part of the selection committee when Sachin made his Ranji Trophy debut in the 1988-89 season against Gujarat at the Wankhede Stadium.
Ahead of the day’s play in the Ranji Trophy semifinal between Mumbai and Vidarbha, the players observed silence to pay tribute to him. The Mumbai players wore black armbands as well in the memory of the cricketer. The Mumbai off-spinner featured in 52 first-class matches for the Mumbai side between 1966-67 and 1977-78 and picked 126 wickets. He also contributed with the bat scoring 1532 runs with an average of 23.56.
The BCCI mourns the passing of Milind Rege, former Mumbai captain and selector. A pillar of Mumbai cricket, he played a key role in its growth and legacy. His keen eye for talent and contributions as a commentator earned admiration across the cricketing fraternity.
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 19, 2025
The Board… pic.twitter.com/LQjU8wHmgs
He was also a member of the organising committee during the ICC Champions Trophy which was held in Mumbai in 2006.
Sad to hear about Milind Rege Sir's passing. He was a true Mumbai cricketer with immense contributions to the city's cricket. He and other CCI members saw potential in me and asked me to play for CCI, which, as I look back now, was a landmark moment in my career.
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) February 19, 2025
He could pick… pic.twitter.com/MD00ghszkW
A childhood friend of former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar, Rege played as the right-handed batter for Dadar Union Sporting Club. He started working as a cricket advisor for MCA in 2020.
"Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Milind Rege Sir. A stalwart of Mumbai cricket, his contributions as a player, selector, and mentor were invaluable," MCA president Ajinkya Naik said in a statement.
"His guidance shaped generations of cricketers, and his legacy will forever be cherished. May his soul rest in peace. Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones," he added.
Really sad to hear about the demise of a dear friend Milind Rege. A true Champion in his contribution to Mumbai and Tata's cricket all-round. A Mentor Par Excellence. Heartfelt condolences to Raj and family. God bless his soul. pic.twitter.com/ZrB1fHAizg
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) February 19, 2025
Former India players like Ravi Shastri and Sachin Tendulkar also tweeted in memory of the ex-Mumbai captain.
